Key Contacts

Tim Sykes - Chairman

Tim has spent over 35 years in the industry, the first 25 of which were spent at Grand Metropolitan in the leased estate and the last 11 years  with Beds & Bars Ltd who operate Belushis and St Christophers in both the UK and Europe. He was elected as the association’s chairman in April 2008, and his experience on both sides of the property fence is uniquely useful to the ALMR and particularly in today’s environment.

 

 

Nick Bish - Chief Executive

Nick Bish established the ALMR in 1991, building it up since then to be the leading trade body for independent multiple operators. He was initially appointed Secretary and then later the organisation's Chief Executive. After 10 years in the Army, he first joined the industry with Courage running managed pubs, eventually becoming Regional General Manager with Imperial Inns & Taverns. He was then a director with HH Finch the family company with pubs, bars and restaurants in London.

Known to enjoy a glass of good wine, Nick is also a fan of the Harlequins RFC and has at times been extremely vocal in the office when monitoring on-line an important sporting event.

 

Kate Nicholls - Head of Communications

Kate Nicholls has worked with the ALMR since 1997, initially as an external consultant and subsequently as Head of Communications. After gaining a degree in English and post-graduate law diploma, she worked as a researcher in the House of Commons and European Parliament. She first joined the industry with Whitbread, working as Government Relations Manager within the Strategic Affairs Department. She was Account Director at one of the largest independent public affairs companies, before establishing her own political consultancy in 2000.

Kate is a yoga devotee, and has just started to train as a yoga teacher. She also plays piano, flute and sings in the local choir.

 

Niki Graske - Commercial Manager

Niki Graske joined the ALMR in 2003 as Administrator, before being promoted to Commercial Manager in 2007, with responsibility for the Association's events programme and commercial activities. She initially trained in Hotel & Catering at Thames Valley University, before moving to The White Company to run their trade exhibitions. A proud mother of two, Niki's hobbies include badminton, tennis, golf and playing piano. She also devotes her time to coaching juniors badminton.

 

Lesley Cuggy - Office Manager

Lesley Cuggy joined the ALMR as Office Manager in September 2008. Her previous experience has been both in the public and private sectors, working mainly within the field of business development. Lesley lived in Australia for four and a half years and returned to the UK in 2006. In her spare time, when not travelling, Lesley can be found shopping, reading and socialising with friends. 

 

Matt Steinhofel - Membership Executive

Matt Steinhofel joined the ALMR in 2007, working part time to assist in the running of events and membership. Having previously worked in film production in America and travelling extensively. Matt is now responsible for the website, keeping members informed of events, briefings and has an integral role in planning our flagship event, the Christmas Luncheon.

Matt is a keen photographer and also enjoys going to the gym and socialising with friends.