Marston’s Alistair Darby named new Mitchells & Butlers chief executive

Following a short period of induction and handover, Bob Ivell will revert to the role of non-executive chairman.
Ivell, executive chairman, said: “The Board and I are all delighted to announce the appointment of Alistair as chief executive following an extensive and rigorous search process. I am confident that we have secured the right person for the role and that drawing on his wealth of operational and brand experience, Alistair will contribute greatly to M&B’s continued strong performance."
Darby said: “M&B is a market-leading business with tremendous potential that is well advanced on a transformation programme. I am excited by the opportunity to lead the company and, together with the management team, to build on M&B’s strong estate, brands and operations.”
Since rejoining Marston’s in 1997, Darby has held a number of senior operational and strategic roles, including leadership of its branded and suburban managed pubs, its beer division and its tenanted and leased pub company. Following his success at Marston’s Pub Company, he was appointed COO in 2011.
He has more than 20 years' experience working on some of the UK’s best known brands in the pubs, drinks and consumer sectors, including roles with Mars Confectionery, Wolverhampton and Dudley Breweries and United Distillers.