Institute of Licensing on lookout for new chairman after Philip Kolvin QC stands down

Philip Kolvin QC has stepped down as chairman of the Institute of Licensing (IoL) after seven years at the helm. The Institute hopes to appoint Kolvin's replacement at its next meeting on 27th April and is asking for expressions of interest from prominent licensing practitioners to be made by the end of March.

“We would welcome those who feel that they have the drive and commitment to pick up the mantle,” the Institute said. “This will be an extremely challenging role as everyone will know of the time, effort and passion that Philip has put into forging the Institute.” Expressions of interest should be e-mailed to David Chambers, Chair of the Organisation and Development Committee, at  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Kolvin, head of the licensing team at 2-3 Gray's Inn Square, will remain involved with the work of  the IoL. He said: “After seven years, I have has decided that it is time to stand down.  It goes without saying that the Institute is very dear to my heart and serving it has been the proudest thing I have done. I have loved watching the Institute grow in strength and stature.

“I have done my level best to work towards the development of licensing as a profession rather than an occupation, to raise the standards of professionalism and education, to build social and professional networks in licensing, and to foster the ideal of common principles in the discipline of licensing by arguing for a broad church approach and by welcoming all-comers into the Institute whatever their provenance. Clearly, much remains to be done, and I look forward to watching my successor take up the reins and drive the Institute forward in the years to come."

The President of the Institute of Licensing, James Button, said: “Philip's vision, leadership and commitment have enabled the Institute to grow in a way, and at a speed, that the founding members could only dream of. That, allied to his professional knowledge, and willingness to share that, has enabled the Institute to provide benefits to its members which are unequalled in the field. Philip leaves a strong organisation, recognised by Government, regulators, industry and practitioners alike as the pre-eminent professional body for licensing. I hope that he will continue to have very strong links with the Institute and on behalf of all the members, past, present and future, I thank him and wish him well for the future.’