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Adnams appoints first woman as CEO in 150-year history
The 48-year-old will become the first woman to serve as CEO in the beer maker's more than 150-year history when she takes up the role on 1 July 2024. The brewery was founded in 1972 and produces a wide range of beer available in kegs, casks, bottles and cans.
Hanlon has serving as the company’s chief financial officer since June 2020 and will succeed Dr Andy Wood, who is to remain with the business until the end of the year in a consultancy capacity before retiring.
Having started her career with Ernst & Young, Hanlon became a member of the Adnams board following her arrival in 2020, while she has also performed senior finance roles with Greene King, Barclays, Willis, iprism and GRP Group.
Speaking on confirmation of her appointment as CEO, Hanlon said: “This is a hugely exciting time to be taking the reins from Andy.
“The Adnams brand is cherished and championed by colleagues and customers, in its heartland of the East of England, across the wider UK and throughout dozens of countries around the world.
“Looking ahead, what’s important is that we keep evolving and keep innovating – our brand and product portfolio, our brewing, distilling and distribution operations and our estate – while continuing to support our customers, communities and colleagues with the same values and commitments which have served us so well.”
Dr Wood’s career at Adnams has spanned almost 30 years, including 14 years as CEO: “It’s been an honour and a privilege to lead Adnams, a business which has been at the heart of our community in Suffolk for over 150 years.
“While the markets we operate in continue to face many challenges, I’m confident that Adnams has the vision and values to build on its incredible success story in the years ahead, and to remain a proud innovator in the market.”
The move comes not long after Adnams unveiled a rebrand across its core beer range and confirmed the launch of two new beers.
Dr Jonathan Adnams, chairman of Adnams, added: “Andy has been a driving force in building Adnams into the business it is today, leading with both principle and professionalism. We will be forever grateful for the lasting impact he has had on Adnams and wish him well for the future.
“Jenny is the ideal candidate to lead us through the next chapter of Adnams’ evolution, both in stabilising our financial footing but also capitalising on Adnams’ unique strengths.”
