BrewDog appoints new CEO and COO as Arrow departs

BrewDog CEO James Taylor, COO Lauren Carrol and outgoing CEO James Arrow
Boardroom news: BrewDog's new CEO James Taylor, new COO Lauren Carrol and outgoing CEO James Arrow (Credit: BrewDog)

BrewDog has appointed James Taylor as new CEO and Lauren Carrol as COO as James Arrow steps down from his role as CEO for personal reasons.

BrewDog said Taylor brings a wealth of financial and strategic expertise to the role, having overseen BrewDog’s finance operations during a period of significant transformation, including the return of the business to profitability in 2024.

Prior to joining the Ellon-based brewer and bar operator, he held senior leadership roles at Mayborn, the childcare company whose brands include Tommee Tippee, GHD and Anya Hindmarch.

His appointment marks a “seamless transition” as BrewDog continues to prioritise profitability, global bar expansion and innovation in the beer market.

Instrumental leader

Carrol joined BrewDog in 2018 and was appointed CMO in 2022. Since then, BrewDog has launched flagship beers including Wingman, Black Heart and Shore Leave.

Prior to BrewDog, Carrol held a number of project management roles at Stork. BrewDog said she brings with her huge knowledge of BrewDog and the beer market, and the operational track record to add immediate value in her new role.

“James Taylor has been an instrumental leader at BrewDog, steering the financial strategy and laying a strong foundation for profitable growth,” said BrewDog chairman Allan Leighton.

“His deep understanding of our business, coupled with his proven track record in operational excellence, makes him the ideal choice to guide BrewDog into its next chapter.

Overseeing US restructure

“I would also like to congratulate Lauren for her promotion, testament to her fantastic work and proven track record during her time at BrewDog.

“Finally, I would like to thank James Arrow for his contribution to BrewDog since he arrived in 2023 and wish him every success in the future.”

BrewDog added the board would like to thank Arrow for his contribution to BrewDog, first as COO, before taking over as CEO in 2024, in particular overseeing the restructuring of the US business, strengthening the company’s operational framework and driving its on-trade presence, including a landmark partnership with the MCC at Lord’s.

BrewDog was founded in 2007 by James Watt and Martin Dickie, and is headquartered in Ellon, Scotland. It employs more than 2,700 people, operates in excess of 120 bars, hotels and venues worldwide – including flagship locations in London Waterloo and Las Vegas, and has breweries in Ellon Scotland, Columbus Ohio, Berlin Germany, and Brisbane, Australia.