BrewDog makes new appointments as CEO steps down

BrewDog has announced a series of changes to its leadership team as chief executive James Arrow steps down.

Arrow, who took over leading the business from founder James Watt last year, is now stepping down from his role for personal reasons.

During his tenure he oversaw a restructuring of the brewer’s US arm and the brand becoming the official beer partner at Lord’s Cricket Ground.

BrewDog said Arrow had led the group to a return to profitability in 2024 after posting a pre-tax loss of £59.2m in year end 2023.

He will hand over the reins to new chief executive James Taylor (pictured above), who has been chief financial officer at BrewDog since 2023.

Taylor previously held senior leadership roles at Mayborn, the childcare company whose brands include Tommee Tippee, as well as GHD and Anya Hindmarch.

At the same time, Lauren Carrol (pictured above) has been appointed chief operating officer.

She joined BrewDog in 2018 and has been its chief marketing officer since 2022, overseeing the launch of beers including Wingman, Black Heart and Shore Leave.

BrewDog chairman Allan Leighton said: “James Taylor has been an instrumental leader at BrewDog, steering the financial strategy and laying a strong foundation for profitable growth.

“His deep understanding of our business, coupled with his proven track record in operational excellence, makes him the ideal choice to guide BrewDog into its next chapter. I would also like to congratulate Lauren for her promotion, testament to her fantastic work and proven track record during her time at BrewDog.

“Finally, I would like to thank James Arrow for his contribution to BrewDog since he arrived in 2023 and wish him every success in the future.”

BrewDog was founded in 2007 by Watt and Martin Dickie. It employs more than 2,700 people and operates 120 bars, hotels and venues worldwide.