GK reveals new exec board structure

The new structure is effectively immediately and will see a process of consultation begin to ensure all central support functions are fully aligned to the new executive structure.

According to Greene King, this next phase will build on its last four years’ worth of progress of business and cultural transformation, including branded portfolio development, customer-centric digital enablers such as bookings, website development and Wi-Fi as well as a new app.

It stated the sharp focus on delivery will be achieved against a backdrop of headwinds and as a result, Greene King will be more agile.

This means the company will have a smaller executive board structure of seven and sees the departure of partnerships and ventures managing director Wayne Shurvinton, chief marketing officer Maria Sebastian and chief communications and sustainability officer Assad Malic.

Reshaped team

The reshaped team will report to CEO Nick Mackenzie and will be:

Chief operating officer – Clair Preston-Beer was previously managing director for Greene King pubs and has been appointed COO. She will be responsible for ensuring the business can drive margin growth through an efficient operating model and leveraging investment. Preston-Beer will also have responsibility for central operations, productivity, procurement, IT and digital, central marketing and property.

Chief experience officer – Andrew Bush, previously chief people officer, will be taking up the role of chief experience officer (CXO). The new role involves ensuring the impact of Greene King’s vision, values and strategy is consistent across teams, customers and communities. Bush will also take responsibility for people and culture, insight and customer, strategy and planning, ESG, communications and corporate affairs.

Destination Brands and Ventures managing director – Jodie Tate joined Greene King as Destination Brands managing director in 2023 from Asda.  Her remit has been expanded to include the existing Venture brands. The managing directors of the Venture businesses of Hickory’s, Premium (Metro and Crafted) and Hotels will now report into Tate. These will continue to operate autonomously of Greene King’s managed brands.

Greene King pubs managing director – Zoe Bowley has joined the business on a permanent basis and has taken on this role. Responsibilities including Pub Partners, which will continue to operate as an autonomous tenanted, leased and franchised business, with its own managing director.

Brewing and group supply chain managing director – Matt Starbuck is continuing in his recently expanded tole, with accountability for brewing and brands as well as food and drink supply networks.

Strong progress

Meanwhile, chief financial officer Richard Smothers shared his intention to retire from a full-time executive role after seven years with Greene King earlier this year.

He will remain with the business until April next year and will continue to support the company in an advisory role. His replacement will be announced in due course.

Greene King CEO Nick Mackenzie said: “We have made strong progress on our business and cultural transformation journey to be the Pride of British Hospitality and now is the right time to move into the next phase.

“A restructure of central support functions is now necessary for the business to thrive for a sustainable future in these challenging times and be best placed to delight customers and deliver outstanding experiences.

“We will be working with representatives to support our team members and limit job losses.

“We are incredibly grateful to Maria, Wayne and Assad for their contribution, without which, Greene King would not be in such a strong position now to turn to delivery.

“We are confident in our strategy and believe our new team and structure is right for us, unlocking the next phase of delivery.

“We will continue to focus investment in our people and being customer first, brand-led and digitally-enabled, in order to succeed in our plan.”

This announcement followed the company’s news earlier this year that it is set to invest £40m in a new brewery​, which will “futureproof” the business for years to come as well as £23m in a new depot​ in Greater Manchester.