Hospitality leaders recognised in New Year’s Honours list

Both Clarke and Findlay were awarded OBEs for their services to the hospitality sector. Menezes was awarded a knighthood.

Clarke launched Baa Bar in Liverpool back in 1991 and is credited with playing a central role in making the city's Ropewalks and Concert Square the destination it is known as today.

“I’m absolutely delighted and honoured to be awarded with this honour, which not only recognises my achievements as a self-made female business leader but also those within this industry that is still struggling to overcome the challenges of the past two years,” she said.

“People are the key to my success and longevity – from day one we’ve always strived for Baa Bar to be a place where people want to work and in doing so, we have a business that is still going strong after 30 years.

“This robustness is absolute testament to the teams, many of whom have worked with us for many years.”

One of Britain’s longest serving FTSE chief executives, Menezes has transformed Diageo into the world’s leading premium drinks company, accounting for 10% (£2bn) of the UK’s total food and drinks exports.

Findlay, meanwhile, spent 27 years with Marston’s and its predecessor businesses before moving on to chair C&C Group in 2021.

Clark added that she hoped her achievements can inspire young people, especially those from a similar background, to believe they can also achieve and be successful in business.

“I’ve learned a lot over the years and I’m at a place in my life and career where I want to give back and offer my support to those to those starting out. I’ve never been one to rest of my laurels – here’s to the next decade,” she said.

In addition, marketing and PR firm Representation Plus founder Janine Cryer was praised for her services to the tourism and hospitality sector and awarded an MBE; while Jocelyn Croft, CEO of UKinbound, was awarded an OBE for services to the tourism industry.