It's a Field day as life of Brian enters new era

Following his brutal, if not unexpected, departure from Ridley's at the behest of Nicholas Ridley (one wonders who next will be brave and/or foolish enough to take on that perilous job?), Brian Field has been contemplating how best to bring his considerable industry experience to bear in a new role.

"I am not out for the count yet by a long way," says our hero. "Having made a considerable impact at Ridley's over the last 41 months, it was certainly a shock to be so unceremoniously dumped by Nicholas, although I should have known it was bound to happen sooner or later.

"However, I am proud to have been the architect of a significant expansion of the business, with turnover doubled, the pub estate significantly expanded and improved, and trading profit quintupled during my time at the helm."

Field is keen to find a new appointment, but to get started, he is looking for interim opportunities that will get him back into the world of work. "I am fortunate to have many good contacts within the industry, not to mention friendships, and I have been touched by the number of people who have made the effort to make contact over the last two months. This was easier said than done as within minutes of my leaving the Ridley's offices, having had half an hour's notice to clear my desk, my mobile was deactivated!"

"My experience covers nearly all possible areas within a vertically-integrated brewery company as well as senior general management, so I'm well placed to cover for long-term sickness or a sabbatical, or to carry out a specific project. Or maybe one of the new pub companies might require an experienced negotiator to set up supply arrangements."

"I shall be raring to go in January," says Field. He is currently talking to a microbrewer about a non-executive role, and also to a major pubco which has a three-month project for him.

"I am confident that these opportunities will just be the start of a new and enjoyable chapter in my working life. I would like to still be busy in five years' time, and am really looking forward to making a positive contribution in whatever way I can."

Field can be contacted on 07849 838969 or jrbfield@aol.com.