As part of its strategy to acquire 200 new sites across the UK before the end of 2021, Blackrose has bolstered its operations and marketing teams with a handful of new hires.
Michael McGarry has been appointed as senior operations manager and will be responsible for Blackrose’s southern pub estate. McGarry was previously operations manager for the south east at OYO hotels, where he managed an estate of 19 properties.
Additionally, Adrian Lowry has been named senior operations manager to oversee Blackrose’s northern estate. Prior to joining Blackrose, Lowry was UK regional manager and director at Shark Club Sports Bar and Grill, having previously worked at Irish Pub Company in Singapore as general manager and operations manager.
Furthermore, Robert Young has been tasked with developing the Blackrose’s marketing function and ultimately supporting the operations team to drive revenue as the group’s new head of marketing.
Young will be supported a team including new digital marketing coordinator Jack Hawkins and marketing coordinator Megan Dryden.
“At Blackrose, our goal has been to create a brand which provides the best possible experience for our guests,” Daren Knipe, CEO of Blackrose, said. “The new additions to our marketing and operations team of experts is a reflection of the targeted growth and continuing momentum of Blackrose as we bring our vision to life.
“The time during lockdown has not only provided period of reflection to hone our brand but has accelerated our ambitions to grow Blackrose and support our communities as we navigate the new normal.”
Clear and ambitious strategy
Launched in June 2019 following a string of acquisitions by real estate investment company Aprirose – including a £22.4m deal for Wear Inns and the £130m purchase of Spirit Pub Company’s branded portfolio from British Land – Blackrose currently boasts 41 pubs under management with 12 currently operating under the Blackrose brand.
“Our pub management company, Blackrose, has a clear and ambitious strategy which we look forward to continuing to support,” Manish Gudka, CEO of Aprirose, said.
“As they identify new investment opportunities and expand the brand, Aprirose is committed to growing this arm of our business as we seek to add 200 new locations to Blackrose’s portfolio by the end of 2021.
“While Covid-19 has undoubtably been a difficult time for all, we continue to seek the right opportunities for investment across all of our platforms.”
