Hospitality leaders awarded OBEs

British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) chief executive Emma McClarkin and HIT Training co-founder and managing director Jill Whittaker have both been awarded an OBE for their work within the sector.

McClarkin was recognised for service to the industry since joining the BBPA in 2019 with particular focus on her support and championing of the industry throughout the pandemic.

Resilience, warmth and ingenuity

She said: “I am delighted and humbled to receive this honour.

“It is truly wonderful to receive this recognition on behalf of the beer and pub sector and for the incredible work the BBPA has done throughout the pandemic and continues to do to support the sector I am so passionate about.

“When I entered the industry in 2019, I had no idea what lay ahead of us, but I have been truly amazed at the resilience, warmth and ingenuity of the people and businesses in our sector to come together and pull through a once in a lifetime challenge.

“I look forward to celebrating with my family and friends over the Jubilee weekend in my local with a pint of beer in hand.”

Prestigious honour

Whittaker was also awarded an OBE in the honours list for her work with apprenticeships in hospitality, care, and management over the past 40 years, having helped around 100,000 employees’ complete apprenticeships or gain qualifications in the sector over the past 10 years.

She said: “I am hugely grateful to have been chosen for this prestigious honour. I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside a vast number of talented individuals and industry bodies during my career and I’m extremely proud of the positive change we’ve achieved in that time.

“I look forward to continuing my work and collaborating with colleagues both at HIT Training and within the charities and organisations that I hold close to my heart, to continue supporting the future leaders of the industry, and enabling workers to be the best they can be.”