Fuller’s announces CFO shake-up

Katie Horner is to be appointed chief financial officer of Fuller’s later this year.

She will be taking over from finance director and executive director Neil Smith, who had indicated plans to retire by the end of 2026.

Horner is currently Fuller’s head of finance and will be appointed chief financial officer designate from 1 September, succeeding Smith upon his retirement on 30 November.

Smith joined the company in November 2021, having previously served as CFO of Domino’s and Ei Group.

Fuller’s said the extensive handover period will ensure continuity and knowledge transfer.

Horner joined Fuller’s in 2018 as group financial controller and was promoted to head of finance in April last year, having played an integral role in some of Fuller’s key transactions, including the disposal of the brewing division to Asahi in 2019, the acquisition of Lovely Pubs in 2024 and the company’s recent bank refinancing.

She also previously served as the company’s interim finance director during 2021.

She said: “I am very excited to step into this role, and I look forward to working with the board and leadership team to build on the company’s strong financial position and future success.”

Executive chairman Simon Emeny added: “I am delighted that Katie has accepted our invitation to join the board as the chief financial officer. This appointment reflects our success in developing internal talent. Katie has a deep understanding of our culture and priorities, and I know she will provide excellent financial leadership. 

“At the same time, I would like to thank Neil for his excellent contribution and wise counsel during his tenure with Fuller’s. He will leave the business in a strong financial position and I, together with the Board, wish him all the best for his retirement later this year.”

Fuller’s operates around 400 pubs and hotels, predominantly in the south of England.