The shortlist, which includes licensees from the free trade, managed and tenanted sectors, was created through a number of stages designed to reveal their expertise in the pub and hospitality industry.
Other finalists previously recognised by the PMA includes Andrew Fishwick from the Truscott Arms, which is featured in the 2016 Top 50 Gastropubs list and previously won newcomer of the year at the same awards.
The 2016 Licensee of the Year finalists are:
- Gerry & Ann Price from the Inn West End in West End, between Camberley and Woking
- Andrew Fishwick from the Truscott Arms in Maida Vale, London
- Rob & Lucy Brewer at the Rashleigh Arms, in St. Austell, Cornwall
- Glen Duckett at the Eagle & Child, Ramsbottom, Bury
- Mel Carus at the Metropolitan, West Didsbury, Manchester
- Glen Pearson at the Shibden Mill, Halifax
The six now face a panel judging day in May where they will be quizzed by industry experts.
All finalists will be presented with trophies at the BII Summer Event on 7 June, when the overall winner will also be announced.
Sue Allen, commercial and membership director of the BII, said: "This group should be extremely proud of themselves for reaching this stage of such a demanding process. The Licensee of the Year Awards are renowned for being extremely challenging but we do feel that this heightens the level of achievement for those who have reached the final stage. I wish every one of them the best on finals judging day.”
John Sharratt, chair of the judging panel, said: “Over the 13 years of my involvement with this award it continues to be a privilege to have the opportunity to meet and talk with professional, passionate, successful and inspirational licensees. This year has been particularly challenging to judge not just because of the large number of entries originally received but also the quality witnessed during our visits by those successfully competing to operate in an ever demanding business environment."