Trade body shake-up due to Payne departure

The Federation of Licensed Victuallers Associations (FLVA) has revealed changes to its management structure due to Tony Payne stepping down as chief executive.

The industry veteran leaves his post at the end of the year but will continue in the new role of parliamentary advisor.

Operations director Martin Caffrey, who started at the trade body last month, will take over case work and membership support.

Meanwhile Payne's executive responsibilities will pass to a new executive committee, which is drawn up from the current management team.

Payne said he will spend the last few months of his tenure trying to get a better deal for tenants.

"Current discussions within our industry sector offer a major opportunity to remedy the imbalances and unfairness within the tie, and I look forward to putting maximum time and effort into this process during my final months as chief executive, " he said.

"I welcome the post of parliamentary advisor to the FLVA and look forward to having an input at Westminster in an effort to make government much more aware of the serious issues facing our members in particular and the licensed trade as a whole".

FLVA president Dennis Griffiths said: "I am delighted that we have completed the first phase of our restructuring and look forward to working alongside the newly expanded team.

"The appointment of Martin Caffrey brings considerable experience and strength to the FLVA which will benefit our members in both their business operations and rental/property negotiations."