In a statement, Stonegate said: “Longbottom brings with him a wealth of experience in the pub and bar sector having held senior positions at Mitchells & Butlers and Mill House Inns and will take up the position on a date to be agreed.
“Toby Smith has agreed to work with Simon to ensure a smooth handover of the business and build on the growth that Stonegate has delivered this year.”
Smith joined Stonegate in June 2011 following the acquisition of the Town and City Pub Company which he had led since 2008.
The group said he has been instrumental in growing Stonegate into the UK’s largest and most profitable privately owned managed pub company.