MacFarlane said: “This change recognises the need for a differentiated customer approach – both geographically and by trading channel – reflecting the changing business needs of the industry.
“It is also a promotion for key people who have been making a significant contribution to the success of the company and have a key role to play in the development of the company,” he said.
The Inbev UK business is being split into six divisions: Scotland; Ireland; England & Wales on-trade independents; on-trade multiples; off-trade independents and off-trade multiples.
Four new people have been added to the UKI Board to head up four of the new trading divisions:
• Mike Lees (divisional director, Scotland)
• Tom McCusker (divisional director, Ireland)
• Tim Clay (divisional director, independent on-trade, England & Wales)
• Simon Harrison (commercial director, independent off-trade).
In addition, Ric Anderton joins the board to head up trade marketing.
Two existing Board members, Steve McAllister (commercial director, multiple off-trade) and Philip Blanc (commercial director, multiple on- trade) continue in their roles.
Board member Steve Kitching, who has been working as managing director, commercial and field operations, has decided to leave the company to pursue a new career challenge.
MacFarlane, who rejoined the company earlier this year from InBev’s global headquarters in Belgium, said: “I believe this new structure and strengthened board will provide us with the streamlined approach and brand-building expertise to improve our business performance going forward.”
