New FLVA boss will take an "even handed" approach in disputes

The boss in waiting of trade group the Federation of Licensed Victuallers Associations (FLVA) has moved quickly to allay concerns about his background working for pubco giant Enterprise Inns.

Martin Caffrey is currently Enterprise's regional manager for the north and north east, but will start as operations director at the trade group next month.

In his first interview since taking the job, he said he aims to carry on current chief executive Tony Payne's approach of taking an "even handed approach" when dealing in disputes between tenants and landlords.

He said: "I can assure people I will be professional in my outlook and I will take an even handed approach as I do now.

"I have been around long enough to know both sides, but I think we should all promote the industry as one."

Caffrey, 54, has previously worked for John Smiths, the Unique Pub Company and Inntrepreneur after starting as a graduate trainee straight from school in the wine and spirits side of the industry.

He will work alongside outgoing chief executive Tony Payne for six months and admits that he has big shoes to fill.

"My first thought is that I will have a very difficult act to follow in terms of Tony, who is well respected throughout the industry," he said.

"I am looking forward to him imparting some of his knowledge to me."

He added that his motive for taking the FLVA job stems from a desire to "give something back to the industry".

"I have got an outsider's view of the FLVA at the moment and it is a professionally and well-run operation.

"I don't think there will be radical changes, but really I need to look at it from the inside."