C&C Group, a drinks company which manufactures, markets and distributes branded beer, cider, wine, spirits and soft drinks across the UK and Ireland, has announced the appointment of Andrew Andrea as chief financial officer.
Andrea will join C&C as CFO and executive director from 1 March 2024. His appointment follows the completion of a rigorous recruitment process undertaken by the nomination committee in conjunction with an independent executive search firm.
Ralph Findlay, who has served as executive chair since May 2023, will revert to the role of non-executive chair following a short transition period after Andrea joins the group.
Andrea is a drinks industry veteran having served in senior roles at Marston’s plc, a leading independent brewing and pub retailing business in the UK, for over 20 years. He joined Marston’s in 2002 and was appointed to the board as finance director in 2009. He served in a variety of senior roles in the business including 12 years as CFO and corporate development officer and, subsequently, as CEO during which time he navigated the business out of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent challenging macroeconomic environment.
He previously held roles with Guinness Brewing Worldwide and Bass Brewers Limited. A qualified chartered accountant, he is also a non-executive director at Portmeirion Group plc.
Regarding his appointment Andrea said: “C&C is a business that I know and have admired throughout my career in the industry. The group’s combination of iconic brands and market-leading distribution capability is unique and I look forward to bringing my expertise and working with the entire C&C team to support the growth of the business in the years ahead.”
Patrick McMahon, C&C Group CEO, said: “Andrew brings a rare depth of experience within our industry to C&C and we are delighted to welcome him to the business. We continue to focus on building C&C as the premium drinks and distribution business in the UK and Irish markets. Andrew will bring invaluable expertise and insight to our team and help deliver on that ambition.”