McNamara to leave British Institute of Innkeeping

John McNamara, chief executive of The British Institute of Innkeeping (BII), is to step down after six and a half years of service at the professional body for the on-trade.

McNamara has been head-hunted to become chief executive of the Alliance of Sector Skills Councils, which is the collective voice for all 25 sector skills councils in the UK.

He said: "Six years is a considerable time in any CEO position and the time has come for me to move on.

"I've thoroughly enjoyed my time at BII; the team here is dynamic, and passionate about helping members and standing up for our sector. I have no doubt that the organisation will continue to play a huge role in supporting the industry through these tough times and beyond."

During his tenure the BII has processed approximately 1.5 million vocational qualifications for the licensed retail sector as well as putting its backing behind responsible drinking initiatives such as Best Bar None, the Proof of Age Standards Scheme (PASS) and Challenge 21.

McNamara will now work out his notice period as the BII search for a successor.

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By Christopher Walton

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