Having specialised in subjects including licensing, planning and copyright while at the BBPA, Cathcart will join the recently established trade body, which formed in February following a merger between the Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers (ALMR) and the British Hospitality Association (BHA).
UKHospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls said: “We are delighted to welcome Jim to the team at an incredibly exciting time for UKHospitality.
“Jim brings with him a wealth of expertise and experience of working on policy for hospitality businesses.
“Jim is widely regarded as the one of the most knowledgeable individuals in the sector and his appointment will be a fantastic asset to UKHospitality.
“The appointment will further enhance our capabilities as a powerful, effective advocate for the UK’s incredibly important pub sector while strengthening our position as the voice for the entire hospitality sector.”
Cathcart added: “A decade at the BBPA has equipped me well for the challenges of my new role.
“It has been a pleasure to work with a talented team of professionals, from whom I have learned so much.
“I am embarking on a new chapter of my career with enthusiasm and excitement.
“I look forward to applying my areas of expertise for the benefit of UKHospitality members, as well as developing my knowledge and experience of the wider sector that UKH represents.”