David McHattie, chief executive of the ALMR, has announced today that he is going to relinquish his current role and take up a position on the Council as from the end of September, according to this morning’s Propel Morning Briefing.
Kate Nicholls, currently strategic affairs director, has been appointed chief executive with immediate effect.
McHattie’s decision to step down coincides with his move to the north of England to develop his pub operation, The Devonshire Arms in Baslow, a Punch Taverns pub, and the desire to develop more sites. He has been responsible for not only growing the core membership but introducing food-service pubs and casual dining into the ALMR with the recruitment of Tragus, Carluccio’s, Brasserie Blanc and Red Hot World Buffet among others in the last few months.
“As a Council Member, I will be able to represent the interests of food-focussed businesses within our sector, whether casual dining restaurants or traditional pubs and bars offering a high quality food experience,” said McHattie. “My personal circumstances have changed and I am relishing the opportunity to move north with my partner and remain in this industry which we all love. The ALMR is in a position to finally become the united voice that licensed hospitality retailers deserve. I hope I have helped in developing the ALMR and look forward to continuing to do so.”
ALMR chairman Steve Richards said: “David leaves the executive of the Association in a much stronger position with a breadth of membership that now spans all sectors. I am delighted at David’s continued involvement on the Council as we continue to grow the representation of food-led businesses.”
A spokesman for the ALMR board said: “Kate brings 20 years’ of experience with her of the sector and an unrivalled insight into politics and public affairs. Her appointment retains the ALMR’s consistent, individual and effective voice and we are really looking forward to continuing to work with her.”
Commenting on her appointment, Kate Nicholls added: “I am honoured to be given this opportunity to represent our dynamic and vibrant industry. I have enjoyed working with David, the Board and our membership over the past year to drive forward a new and ambitious agenda for the ALMR and relish the challenge of delivering a strong, united and robust voice for licensed hospitality.”
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