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Suffolk-based hospitality group Adnams has announced that chairman Jonathan Adnams has stepped down from his role with immediate effect due to health reasons.
The news comes after he initially informed members of his possible retirement at the company’s last Annual General Meeting.
As a result, the board “unanimously” agreed that Simon Townsend will step in on an interim basis as non-executive chairman.
Townsend is already a non-executive director of the company and chair of the remuneration committee. He is also a non-executive director of Cote Restaurants.
Having joined the business in 1975, Adnams began his career in brewery engineering before joining the board in 1988. Appointed managing director in 1997 and chairman in 2006, 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.
Jonathan Adnams was also awarded an OBE in 2008 for his commitment to corporate social responsibility.
The group has stated that Adnams, whose family remains a “significant” shareholder, would continue to support the company until next year’s Annual General Meeting.
Adnams 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 am very pleased to see Simon step into the role of Chairman of the Board on an interim basis. He has the expertise and experience to guide Adnams through its current transition and help secure a long-term financial solution to underpin its growth ambitions.”
Townsend added: “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.
“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.”
