Greg Mace to step down from Rapport with Dirk Talsma appointed new MD

Rapport, which provides businesses with front and back of house guest services, has appointed Dirk Talsma (pictured) as its new managing director with Greg Mace to step down at the end of July.

Talsma will be promoted from director of strategy and business operations after five years with the company, having joined as head of operations in 2015.

Mace founded Rapport, part of Compass Group, in 2011 having previously led corporate reception management company Portico, the front-of-house management services provider of BaxterStorey parent company Westbury Street Holdings.

Matthew Thomas, managing director, RA Group said: "Greg leaves behind a fantastic legacy, having set up and run the business over the past 10 years. He has grown Rapport into the successful front of house and guest services market leading proposition it is now, which has also seen it expand into other countries. Rapport's people- and customer-centred focus has received a number of high-profile industry accolades, which is a great testament to the commitment, engagement and hard work of Greg and his team. We wish Greg all the very best for the future.

"I am delighted to appoint Dirk Talsma as managing director for Rapport moving forward. Dirk is currently director of strategy and business operations and has been an integral part of the Rapport business for the past five years. He brings great passion and expertise to the role and I have no doubt will continue to deliver the exceptional service to clients and customers that Rapport has become renowned for."

Mace said: "After 10 amazing years, I have decided now is the right time for me to pursue other opportunities. I am hugely proud of Rapport and what we have achieved. The highlight has been working with so many brilliant Rapport ambassadors, as we have grown the business together from small beginnings to where it is today, with an outstanding client portfolio. With the support of Compass, we have also expanded Rapport into new countries and continents, which has been exciting. I know Dirk will do a great job and I will be staying in touch with the business and look forward to seeing its future progression."

Talsma added: "I am looking forward to leading Rapport, following what has been a really challenging time for our teams and clients. Throughout the pandemic we have focused on our ambassadors' wellbeing and supporting our clients; as lockdown restrictions ease, I am looking forward to welcoming clients and their employees back to their workplaces.

"Creating meaningful and memorable experiences has never been more important. We are also working on a number of exciting projects that will even further enhance our client proposition, promote our ambassadors' wellbeing and will cement our position as market leader. I feel exceptionally privileged to have been under Greg's mentorship over the last five years and will continue to build on the legacy that he leaves behind."

Rapport was recently recognised as one of The Caterer's 30 Best Places to Work in Hospitality 2021.

Photo credit: Jodi Hinds