The 29th recipient of the award received the honour at today’s BII Annual Lunch at London’s Grosvenor House.
Price, who started at the Pier as a barman 19 years ago, said he hoped his success would prove an inspiration to young people entering the trade.
He received his award from sports presenter John Inverdale and BII chief executive Tim Hulme, who described Price as “top of the tree”.
Honour
Speaking to the PMA after receiving his award, Price said: “I genuinely feel honoured – this is the big one. I’ve learnt so much going through this process and I’ve seen all the hard work that goes into it, so that makes it even more special to win.
“I started as a barman on a summer job and 19 years later here I am winning licensee of the year. I hope this proves to young people that this industry isn’t just a stop gap but it can be a really good career.”
Hulme said: “The industry is full of dedicated, knowledgeable and hardworking individuals and Lee has proven himself to be at the top of the tree. Make no mistake, if you claim the title of Licensee of the Year, you really are the best of the best. Pubs contribute so much to the fabric of our community, so when you look at the quality of the entries this year, you know the future of the Great British Pub is in great hands.”
The other winners at the BII lunch were:
Apprentice of the Year – Callum Gallagher of Ramside Hall Hotel in Durham
Beer Sommelier of the Year – Jane Peyton
International Beer Sommelier of the Year – Hans Tryggvason
Jeremy Allen Award – Dennis Forsyth
Fundraiser of the Year – Sara Blunden of the Royal Oak in West Sussex
SAB Miller Scholars Programme – Stacey Goodall of Garforth Working Men’s Club in Woods Whur