The BII has started its search for the hospitality sector’s top personalities with the launch of five industry awards: Apprentice of the Year, Fundraiser of the Year, Beer Sommelier of the Year, Jeremy Allen Award and the SAB Miller Award. Together with its flagship ‘Licensee of the Year Award, these honours each recognise the outstanding work of individuals across the licensed trade sector.
Apprentice of the Year
This award recognises the commitment of young people joining the hospitality industry and rewards those working towards, or who have completed a BII Apprenticeship. Entrants should be nominated by their employers to show how becoming an apprentice has benefited both the individual and the business.
Fundraiser of the Year
Pubs and their customers raise over a hundred million pounds a year for charities, and this award, in association with the charity ‘Pub Aid’, acknowledges the outstanding achievements of individuals in the industry. The amount of money raised is not the only factor, candidates will also be judged on their ability to demonstrate a long-term commitment to charity work.
Beer Academy Beer Sommelier of the Year
Launched in 2014, the Beer Sommelier of the Year Award is awarded in association with The Beer Academy. The award aims to promote, recognise and reward the achievements of qualified Beer Academy sommeliers that have demonstrated a proactive role in developing the profile of beer in licensed hospitality.
Jeremy Allen Award
Sponsored by Poppleston Allen Licensing Solicitors and named after the company’s founding partner, the late Jeremy Allen, this award focuses on revolutionary training and staff development, which has helped to transform businesses.
SAB Miller Award
Open to all staff working in the UK who have successfully completed the BIIAB Level One Award in Responsible Alcohol Retailing, the SAB Miller award promotes professionalism and a responsible approach to alcohol sales.
Candidates must be nominated for this award and be currently working in a customer-facing role where they consistently demonstrate their understanding of legal and social responsibilities when serving alcohol.
The winners for each award will be announced at the BII summer event on 2nd June, which is taking place at The Artillery Garden at The HAC, Moorgate, London.
The 30th Licensee of the Year Award will also be announced at the June event, celebrating the publican who demonstrates the highest levels of business acumen and commitment to staff development.
The closing date for all entries is Thursday 12 February: to enter any of the awards visit www.bii.org/awards