34 Jonathan Webster managing director, Greene King Destination Pubs (new entry) Jonathan Lawson managing director, Greene King Local Pubs (new entry)

Why they are on the list:

Webster and Lawson assumed command of Greene King's two new managed pub divisions following the re-structuring of the company's 800-strong managed houses in March this year. Webster joined GK on its acquisition of Hardys & Hansons last year, while Lawson was recruited from Sainsbury's where he was retail director of its convenience store operations.

What the past year has held:

Greene King clearly thought its managed-house operations were a tad unwieldy, hence its decision to split the estate up into two clearly defined parts to underline their differing needs. Both men came to their new jobs with excellent track records from their former companies.

Challenges ahead:

Webster's task in charge of food-led destination houses will be to capitalise on the opportunities the July smoking ban will bring.

If any sector is set to benefit from the ban, food and family pubs will be the one. Lawson, on the other hand, will need to conjure up ways of mitigating the worst effects of the ban, which is set to hit beer-led local venues the hardest.