In a significant milestone for the renowned Southwold-based brewery and pub group Adnams, the company has appointed its first-ever female chief executive officer. Jenny Hanlon, 48, currently serving as the Chief Financial Officer, will step into this esteemed role effective July 1, succeeding Andy Wood, who has led the company for 14 years and will retire at the end of this year.

The decision to appoint Mrs. Hanlon as CEO was unanimously approved by the Adnams board on March 28, marking the culmination of a meticulously planned succession strategy announced last July. Dr. Wood, a stalwart of the company for nearly three decades, will continue to support the transition in a consultancy capacity until the close of the year.

Mrs. Hanlon brings a wealth of experience to her new position, having forged an illustrious career in finance spanning various prominent organizations. Originally hailing from Hitchin in Hertfordshire, she commenced her professional journey with Ernst & Young before assuming senior finance roles at Greene King, Barclays, Willis plc, iprism, and GRP Group. Her association with Adnams dates back to 2020 when she joined the company’s board.

Not only a seasoned finance professional, but Mrs. Hanlon is also deeply ingrained in the Suffolk community, having relocated to the area in 2002. Over the years, she has been actively involved in supporting local charities, currently serving as the treasurer for Aldeburgh Cinema Trust.

Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Mrs. Hanlon remarked, “This is a hugely exciting time to be taking the reins from Andy.” Dr. Wood’s tenure at Adnams has been marked by transformative growth, steering the company from its roots as a regional brewery to its current status as a diversified enterprise encompassing beer, wine, and spirits, alongside a robust pub, hotel, and retail portfolio. Moreover, under his stewardship, Adnams has been at the forefront of sustainability initiatives.