McNamara to leave job as BII boss
BII chief executive John McNamara is stepping down after six-and-a-half years in the job.
After working out his notice and helping the search for a successor he will start a new role as the chief executive of the Alliance of Sector Skills Councils - the collective voice for all 25 Sector Skills Councils in the UK.
He said: "Six years is a considerable time in any CEO position and the time has come for me to move on.
"I've thoroughly enjoyed my time at BII; the team here is dynamic, and passionate about helping members and standing up for our sector.
"I have no doubt that the organisation will continue to play a huge role in supporting the industry through these tough times and beyond.
"I will still be involved in the UK skills arena and will follow with interest the activities of BIIAB. I know there are great things to come for the market leader in licensed retail qualifications."
His six month notice period has now started and it is likely he wil continue working at the BII until a successor is appointed.
He told the Publican that one of the biggest challenges facing the next chief executive is promoting the good work of the industry.
McNamara said: "The abiding memory for me about this job will be the professionalism of members and whenever I go into a member's pub I learn something new.
"What really upset me about the KPMG report (see story right) was the lack of any recognition about what the industry has done over the last 15 years. I think it i sone of the biggest challenges facing the successor - we have got to continue to represent that professionalism."
BII chairman Martin Grant said: "I wish John every success in his demanding new role. He has played a key part in boosting our profile, our range of activities and support for members during his period of tenure. He leaves behind a strong foundation for the future development of BII in its key mission of helping and supporting our members."
BII is the licensed retail industry's professional body. As well as offering guidance and training to its members it is also involved in social responsibility scheme such as Best Bar None, the Proof of Age Standards Scheme (PASS) and Challenge 21.
