Experienced duo join senior team at Admiral Taverns
The appointments, made on Friday (23 March) come as the group continues to develop its senior team as part of growth plans in the UK.
Ronayne joins Admiral Taverns having previously held senior roles at Molson Coors, and more recently was operations director at Punch. He joins Admiral from Ei Group, where he was managing director of operations, to succeed former operations director Andy Hodgson, who will be retiring after 30 years in the industry – seven at Admiral – in April.
Wigham, an experienced sales and operations director, has worked in the sector for 17 years, most recently as operations director of sales and marketing, and development director, at Punch. He joins the group as interim commercial director to spearhead Admiral’s commercial, sales and marketing activity.
Wealth of experience
Admiral Taverns chief executive Kevin Georgel: “On behalf of the entire team, I would like to welcome Ian and David to the group. They bring with them a wealth of industry experience that will be invaluable as we continue to accelerate our ambitious growth plans, developing our position as the UK’s leading operator of community pubs.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Andy Hodgson for his significant contribution to our business during what has been a transformational period for Admiral Taverns. We wish him the very best for a long and enjoyable retirement.”
Ian Ronayne added: “Admiral has built an enviable reputation in the industry for its unique culture and approach, developing strong working relationships with its licensees.
“Its growth trajectory is impressive, and I am delighted to be joining this progressive team during an exciting phase in the group’s history.”
The community pub group recently invested £235,000 to reopen Grade II-listed pub, the Waldegrave Arms, in East Harptree, just south of Bristol.
