Craft beer giant BrewDog said its chief executive James Arrow has stepped down for personal reasons.
The Aberdeen-based business has promoted chief financial officer James Taylor as new chief executive, effective immediately.
Arrow took over as chief executive last year, after co-founder James Watt stepped down from the role. He joined the company in September 2023 as chief operating officer.
In a statement, the BrewDog board thanked Arrow for his contribution to the company, in particular overseeing the restructuring of the US business, strengthening the company’s operational framework and driving its on-trade presence, including a landmark partnership with the MCC at Lord’s.
Taylor brings a wealth of financial and strategic expertise to the role, having overseen BrewDog’s finance operations during a period of significant transformation, including the return of the business to profitability in 2024.
Prior to joining BrewDog, he held senior leadership roles at Mayborn, the childcare company whose brands include Tommee Tippee, GHD and Anya Hindmarch.
Lauren Carrol
The company also announced the appointment of Lauren Carrol as chief operating officer.
Carrol joined BrewDog in 2018 and was appointed chief marketing officer in 2022. Since then BrewDog has launched flagship beers including Wingman, Black Heart and Shore Leave, building on its position as the UK’s leading craft beer brand.
Prior to BrewDog, Lauren held a number of project management roles at Stork.
“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,” Allan Leighton, chairman of BrewDog, said.
“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.”
