Hunt is on for the top BDMs

Trade group the Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers (ALMR) has started the hunt for its 2009 Operations Managers of the Year.

The awards are designed to celebrate operations managers who have made their pubs and bars the best in the business.

Nick Bish, chief executive of the ALMR, said: "The Operations Managers Awards are not simply a competition. They provide a real opportunity for personal development.

"Operations managers have the responsibility to deliver success at pub level and it is fundamental they are given the tools to do their job properly."

The awards will see prizes handed to the area manager of the year for managed houses and the business development manager of the year for tenanted and leased businesses.

Nominations are anticipated from retail and pub companies, regional brewers and from the operations managers themselves.

Bish added: "The entry paper is a challenge in itself. It's a searching and thought-provoking test, which requires applicants to demonstrate their understanding of the industry and their contribution to the success of their company

"It will appeal to people with a winning attitude, who wish to gain professional recognition and first class development alongside industry peers."

Finalists continue in the competition with a working day observed and judged by a senior industry executive and then attend the three-day MasterClass.

On the fourth day, finalists face a grilling from a panel of judges to decide who will be crowned ALMR Operations Managers 2009.

The winners will be announced at the ALMR autumn event on September 24 2009.

Nominations can now be made online at the awards' dedicated website www.almropsawards.org.uk​ or by calling the ALMR on 020 8579 2080.