Mike Clist, former Fuller’s operations director, is to take on the managing director role at trade body the British Institute of Innkeeping (BII) from 1 April.
The newly-created position will be held on a part-time basis, as part of a move by the BII to create a ‘lean’ structure to maximise value for members. Clist, who was responsible for Fuller’s tenanted division, was also previously a general manager for the tenanted estate at Allied Breweries, and later at Punch Taverns.
The appointment is a strategic move as the body begins to buffer itself for the year ahead, which will see the Market Rent Only option and the Pubs Code loom large. Clist has also sat on the board for the Pub Governing Body (PGB), which requires pub companies to introduce their own codes of practice.
Anthony Pender, chairman of the BII, said: 'As first choice, Mike’s appointment is a real coup for BII members as he can truly connect and understand their businesses. Not only is he particularly suited for this role because of his experience in the tenanted environment but, having been a trustee for a number of years, Mike is already completely aligned with the BII. The move to a part time managing director is real testament to our strong leadership team and their ability to deliver BII strategy as identified by the trustees.'
It was announced in December that current CEO Tim Hulme will step down on 31 March, having held the position for three years.
Clist added: 'Tim has done a great job as chief executive and I am delighted to continue his good work in order to optimise the BII member experience. I have had a long-standing relationship with the BII as a member myself, trustee and industry advisor communicating the perspective of the tenant and so am keen to offer my industry knowledge to the BII in such a key role.'
