Dan Hills, managing director of Punch’s sister company The Laine Pub Company, is stepping down after 24 years in the business and will be succeeded by Punch's Marketing & Strategy Director, Russell Danks.
Gavin George, ceo of Laine said: "Dan has played an integral part in creating the amazing company Laine is today. Having started with us in pub operations and progressing through senior management roles to Managing Director of the pub business, Dan has been instrumental in the creation of market-leading pub experiences and has made an unprecedented contribution to the culture and DNA of the Laine business.
“I am hugely grateful to Dan for his passion and dedication over the years; I know he will go on to do more great things in this industry."
Punch Pubs & Co ceo Clive Chesser commented on the move: "Russell has recently returned from a six-month sabbatical in which he fulfilled some long-term personal goals.
"Russell has been a real force for positive change at Punch, and I am proud to support his move into the next stage of his career journey. Russell will be a huge asset to the Laine business, and we look forward to continuing to work closely with him, Gavin and the wider team."
George added: “I am very pleased to welcome Russell to the team at Laine. I know him well and am excited that he is bringing his wealth of experience, knowledge and enthusiasm to our business. I very much look forward to working with him."
Hills remains with the Laine business to work with Danks on a smooth transition, following which he plans to take time out to travel before returning to the UK to continue his career in hospitality.
Burn leaves Punch
Meanwhile, HR director Jackie Burn, who has been a part of the Punch team for 18 years, will leave the company this week after deciding to take a career break to spend more time with her family.
Laura Cavendish, who has worked within the People Team at Punch for 15 years, has been promoted into the role.
Chesser added: “Jackie has been hugely instrumental in building and nurturing our brilliantly positive culture, creating a safe and welcoming workplace where people's development and progression are a priority – a legacy to be truly proud of.
"I am also delighted to confirm Laura's promotion. Her progression through the Punch business is fantastic and a testament to her hard work and passion for people and pubs. Laura is truly embedded in our business and culture, and I know she will continue to build on Jackie's excellent work in leading our people agenda."