Jenny Hanlon is to become the first ever female chief executive of Adnams — the brewer, distiller, and retailer — in its 150-year history.
Adnams chief executive Dr Andy Wood, with Jenny Hanlon, who will be taking on the role in July
Jenny, who has been serving as the company’s chief financial officer, will succeed Dr Andy Wood, who is to remain with the business until the end of the year in a consultancy capacity before retiring.
The appointment follows a long-term succession plan announced last July. It was approved by the board on 28th March. Jenny will formally commence her new role on 1st July.
Having started her career with Ernst & Young, she become a member of the Adnams board in 2020. She has performed senior finance roles with Greene King, Barclays, Willis plc, iprism, and GRP Group.
Originally from Hitchin, in Hertfordshire, she moved to Suffolk in 2002, since when she has held various roles in support of community-based charities. She is currently treasurer for Aldeburgh Cinema Trust.
“This is a hugely exciting time to be taking the reins from Andy,” said Jenny. “The Adnams brand is cherished and championed by colleagues and customers, in its heartland of the East of England, across the wider UK, and throughout dozens of countries around the world.
“Looking ahead, what’s important is that we keep evolving and keep innovating — our brand and product portfolio, our brewing, distilling, and distribution operations, and our estate — while continuing to support our customers, communities, and colleagues with the same values and commitments which have served us so well.”
Andy’s career at Adnams spans almost 30 years, including 14 years as chief executive during which time he led the transformation of the business from a regional brewing company into a diversified beer, wine and spirits company with a pub, hotel and retail estate.
Having been a champion for Adnams’ commitment to sustainability, he was awarded an OBE in 2013. He previously served as The Prince of Wales’ Ambassador for Responsible Business in the East of England.
He said: “It’s been an honour and a privilege to lead Adnams, a business which has been at the heart of our community in Suffolk for over 150 years. While the markets we operate in continue to face many challenges, I’m confident that Adnams has the vision and values to build on its incredible success story in the years ahead, and to remain a proud innovator in the market.”
Dr Jonathan Adnams OBE, chairman of Adnams, added: “Andy has been a driving force in building Adnams into the business it is today, leading with both principle and professionalism. We will be forever grateful for the lasting impact he has had on Adnams and wish him well for the future.
“Jenny is the ideal candidate to lead us through the next chapter of Adnams’ evolution, both in stabilising our financial footing but also capitalising on Adnams’ unique strengths.”
It was reported on Sky last week that Adnams could be open to a sale as it faces up to tough market conditions.
