BrewDog Bars CEO James Brown steps down
Having been in his job for the past nine years, he has told followers on LinkedIn that “it’s time for me to call last orders”.
Brown, who told The Morning Advertiser the sector needs a representative in Government who recognises the massive contribution the industry makes to the UK economy, explained he has enjoyed a “privileged” career.
Prezzo, which is owned by Cain International, operates almost 100 restaurant outlets and employs more than 2,000 people.
Sky News said the business has been under the stewardship of interim leader Dean Challenger, who will now return to his former role as chief financial officer, according to insiders.
The broadcaster said sources claim the business is now back in expansion mode, with a pipeline of potential sites being examined.
Incredible journey
He said: “So… some big news for me personally. After 9 years at BrewDog, it’s time for me to call last orders.
“By the time I leave, I will have had the most incredible journey leading our bars business for the best part of a decade. As a bartender in Glasgow during my studies I could never have dreamed of a career in hospitality that took me to all four corners of the planet opening bars and running businesses with the most awesome bunch of people.
“I was privileged to work with some amazing talented ‘BrewDogers’ both past and present and their energy, drive and creativity led the business to what it is today.”
‘Insane’ projects
Brown went on to thanks BrewDog founders James Watt and Martin Dickie, former COO David McDowall – who is now Stonegate CEO – and the rest of the business for “putting their trust in me and for agreeing to do some pretty incredible (sometimes insane) projects over the years”.
He added: “For now, my focus is being thankful to all the staff, all our Equity Punk shareholders and all the wonderful suppliers and partners that helped us build this thing over the years.
“I will remain a shareholder, huge BrewDog fan and will be cheering this amazing business on from the sidelines.”
