At the company’s last AGM, the outgoing chairman informed board members he was considering retiring before the next meeting in 2025.
The firm said Adnams, whose family remains a significant shareholder, would continue to support the company until next year’s AGM.
Adnams joined the company in 1975, beginning his career in brewery engineering before joining the board in 1988. He was appointed managing director in 1997 and Chairman in 2006.
Since then, the firm said he has been “instrumental in driving the company forward” in terms of innovation and sustainability, including its investment in energy-efficient brewing equipment and its world-class distillery.
Immensely proud
Adnams was also awarded an OBE in 2008 for his commitment to corporate social responsibility.
Commenting on the move, he said: “I’m saddened to be stepping down from the board earlier than planned but will of course continue to champion the business from the sidelines.
“Adnams has always been a lot more than just a name to me. The success of the company has been one of the biggest priorities in my life for almost half a century and I’m immensely proud of its achievements.
“I’m also reassured the principles on which we built the business – integrity, charity, innovation – are as present today as they ever were. That, as ever, is testament to its people.”
The board unanimously agreed Simon Townsend, Adnams current non-executive director and chair of the remuneration committee, will step in on an interim basis, as Non-Executive Chairman.
Townsend joined the Adnams board in January 2023 and is also chairman of Wadworth & Co, a non-executive director of JW Lees & Co, a non-executive director of Cote Restaurants and a senior advisor at global consultancy Teneo.
Debt of gratitude
He is also a member of the advisory board of diversity and inclusion organisation WiHTL.
Towsend said: “The Adnams family, business and community owes a debt of gratitude to Jonathan for the contribution he’s made over a 50-year career.
“His personal commitment to innovation – in our products through to our brewing and distilling capabilities – has been instrumental in building the foundations we continue to benefit from today.
“Not only that, but – as a leader - he has embodied the principles and values to such an extent that they flow through every aspect of our business today.
“I’m excited about the opportunities we now face and remain fully committed to securing the long-term financial solution we need to support our growth.”
