The chief executive officer of pub operator Marston’s has stepped down with immediate effect.
Andrew Andrea, who has been at the company for more than 20 years, will be available for the business for a period to ensure smooth handover of responsibilities.
He will be succeeded by Justin Platt, who has spent the last 12 years at Merlin Entertainments, most recently as Chief Strategy Officer.
Justin has over 30 years’ experience in hospitality and consumer-facing businesses.
He will take up the role from 10 January 2024.
Chair William Rucker will support the management transition in the short interim period with the Executive team reporting directly into him.
William said: “Andrew has worked for the company for over 20 years and the Board thanks him for his valuable contribution, particularly in recent times, which has been one of the most challenging for our sector. He leaves with our very best wishes.
“Looking forward, I am very pleased to be able to announce the appointment of Justin Platt whose broad Consumer sector expertise, strategic acumen and prowess in customer experience at Merlin will be of great benefit to Marston’s at this stage in the Company’s journey.”
Andrew said: “I am extremely proud to have navigated Marston’s out of the pandemic as a focussed pub business and put in place a first-class management team who are achieving market outperformance.
“This is the right time for me to step down and I am confident the business is in great shape with strong future potential. I wish William, Justin and the whole team continued success in the future.”
Justin said: “I am delighted to be joining Marston’s. The company has massive potential and a passionate and talented team.
“I am really looking forward to working with the Board and the management team to deliver the sustainable business growth that will drive value for our shareholders.”
- Marston’s, which has its brewery in Burton up on Trent, is set to announce its latest preliminary results next month. The company has said current trading remains in line with management expectations.
