Marston’s appoints new chief financial officer

Marston’s has announced the appointment of Stephen Hopson as its new chief financial officer, replacing Hayleigh Lupino, who is stepping down to take up a new role outside the company.

Hopson will join the pub and hospitality group and take up a seat on its board on 8 September, while Lupino will remain with the firm until the end of the financial year on 27 September to support the transition.

He joins from Topps Tiles, where he has served as chief financial officer and board member since November 2020. Hopson brings more than a decade of senior finance experience across the leisure and retail sectors, including roles at Molson Coors Beverage Company, Travis Perkins and Mitchells and Butlers.

Justin Platt, chief executive of Marston’s, said: “On behalf of the whole Marston’s team, I’m delighted to welcome Stephen to the business. He has a wealth of experience which will benefit the group as we drive forward with our strategy as a leading pure-play hospitality business, delivering increasing returns for our shareholders.

“Once again I’d like to express my sincere thanks to Hayleigh for her many years of service to Marston’s and wish her every success in her new role.”

Hopson added: “With its well-defined strategy and clear vision for the future, I am excited to be joining Marston’s in this period of significant momentum for the business. 

“I look forward to working with Justin, the board and the wider team to capitalise on the opportunities ahead, as together we extend Marston’s track record of sustainable growth and deliver value to all our stakeholders.”