'No conflict' for new FLVA boss
The man who is to head the Federation of Licensed Victuallers Associations says there's "no conflict" between his new role and his current job at Enterprise Inns.
Martin Caffrey is currently Enterprise's regional manager for the north and north-east and is expected to take on his new position as FLVA operations director at the end of August.
He will replace current chief executive Tony Payne, who will stay at the group as its Parliamentary advisor after he retires as CEO at the end of the year.
Caffrey, 54, worked as regional manager at John Smiths brewery in the 1980s. He became regional manager at Unique Pub Company until it was bought by Enterprise in 2004.
When asked about concerns of a conflict of interest in pubco/tenant disputes, Caffrey said: "I'm experienced enough and professional enough to be fair to my members.
"I don't see a conflict in my past. My past is my past and my future is with the FLVA.
"I know the beer tie is the flavour of the month but there are a lot of other issues [for licensees] around that I want to help with."
He added: "It's a very, very interesting time at the moment and I really want to put something back that I've gained after years of experience.
"Tony is a legend in the industry so I have to fill a very good man's boots.
A statement from the FLVA said: "Martin will work alongside Tony Payne, who retires as chief executive in December 2009 before taking up his new position as Parliamentary advisor to the FLVA in January 2010."
FLVA president Dennis Griffiths said: "We are pleased Martin has agreed to join us and we look forward to working with him.
"I've known Martin for over 20 years, initially during his time with John Smiths and Unique Pub Company and latterly with Enterprise Inns.
"Martin brings a wealth of experience, which will be invaluable in both assisting members in the operation of their businesses and in their individual negotiations with pubcos."
