Best Bar None - the UK's national awards scheme for best practice in the licensed trade

British Institute of Innkeeping (BII) and Best Bar None (BBN) announces the departure of Neil Robertson after a busy and successful time as Chief Executive.

After 3 years at BII & BBN, Neil is moving to take up a role with leading apprenticeship providers, Babcock International as Director of Training.  He will remain involved with the pub sector and BIIAB through Babcock’s pub apprenticeship scheme.

With the replacement process already underway, current BII Treasurer, Peter Thomas, will stand in as interim CEO. With 15 years experience of the BII, and a long career in the Industry, Peter can ensure that both current initiatives and new plans will be kept on track.

Chief amongst these will be implementing a new streamlined Council structure, and an accompanying new 3 year strategy. BII members will be asked to vote in January on the new proposed arrangements, which Council have worked on over the last year.

BII Chairman, Martin Grant comments:-

“Neil has steered BII through an important period in its development and we wish him well in the future.  BII’s role is more critical than ever so we will carry out a thorough and extensive search to make sure that we find the right person to lead our next phase.  I’m grateful to Peter Thomas for agreeing to step in.  Peter’s senior management experience will be of great benefit to BII.”

Peter Thomas said: “I am happy to take up this role and provide continuity and focus over the coming months.  Our new 3 year strategy will require strong leadership and clear management.  I am looking forward to keeping BII’s momentum going. Whilst there is never a good time to change Chief Executives, the progress we have made with our restructure means that we will have fresh leadership for the new strategy.”

Neil Robertson said: “It has been absolute privilege to lead BII.  It is a great organisation, which will be needed by the trade even more in future.  I’m very grateful for the excellent support I have had from the BII council and individual members.  The new strategy will benefit from a fresh pair of eyes, making this the right time to move.  I’ve really enjoyed working in this industry and I’m glad my new role will allow me to stay in touch.  I think apprenticeships can make a big difference and I will continue to play my part in promoting them.”