Top BrewDog executive to become boss at Stonegate Pub Company

One of the top executives at BrewDog is leaving to take over running the company behind the Slug & Lettuce and Be at One bar brands.

David McDowall, who is currently president and chief operating officer at BrewDog, is to join the 4,500-site Stonegate Pub Company as chief executive officer next spring.

He will replace Simon Longbottom, who is stepping down from the role at the end of February to “pursue interests abroad” but will remain as a shareholder.

Stonegate said McDowall was a “highly regarded operator” who had been “instrumental” in building up the BrewDog brand to operate more than 100 bars worldwide since 2007.

He will work alongside Longbottom in early 2023 during a handover period.

Ian Payne, chairman at Stonegate, said: “Simon has been a much-valued member of the senior team in building Stonegate Group into the leading pub and bar business which it is today.

“Looking to the future, Simon leaves Stonegate in excellent health and trading extremely well. The board is confident that David will continue to drive Stonegate forward and take advantage of the many opportunities ahead.”

McDowall said: “Stonegate is an outstanding business, with a clear strategy, highly capable management team and hugely exciting future.

"I am passionate about pubs and the wider brewing sector and am looking forward to be joining the team and further unlocking the clear potential of this great business.”

*Image: Alena Veasey / Shutterstock *