Sir Brian Stewart named as next C&C chairman

DRINKS GROUP C&C said yesterday it had appointed Sir Brian Stewart as chairman designate, to step into the role when current chairman Tony O’Brien retires later this year.

Mr O’Brien has held the role of chairman for eight years, following 20 years as chief executive.

Sir Brian, who is a former chairman of Standard Life and Scottish Newcastle, will also be appointed as a director with effect from March 9th.

He will officially take up the role as non-executive chairman at the group’s annual general meeting on August 5th.

“We are delighted to have attracted someone of Sir Brian’s calibre to the C&C Group board, and that he has accepted the role to become chairman,” said Mr O’Brien. “With his vast knowledge and experience of the long alcoholic drinks sector, coupled with his valuable trade connections, he is well equipped to provide astute strategic leadership of the board, and is the ideal person to lead the next phase of C&C’s development.”

Sir Brian oversaw Scottish Newcastle’s expansion across Europe, India and China, including the takeover of Kronenbourg in France and Hartwall in Finland, and was instrumental in the acquisition of British cider maker HP Bulmer of Hereford.