BrewDog co-founder James Watt is stepping down from his role as CEO after 17 whirlwind years at the helm.
The 41-year-old, who is dating Made in Chelsea star Georgia Toffolo, will hand over the reins of the quirky alcohol-free beer manufacturer to Chief Operating Officer James Arrow.
Watt, who started BrewDog with Martin Dickie in his mum’s garage, announced the change on LinkedIn while revealing he would be moving into a new role within the business.
“After 17 fantastic years as CEO, I have decided to transition into a new role in the business, one of ‘Captain & Co-Founder’,” he wrote.
Who will be the new Brewdog CEO?
“James Arrow will pick up the reins as CEO as our business pushes forward into our next phase of growth.
“In my new role, I will remain as a board member, and a director and I will also be a part-time strategic advisor to the business and our leadership team.
“Furthermore, I will retain my BrewDog shareholding and my Hop Stock initiative whereby I give 20% of my BrewDog shares to the team will remain in place.
“During my time at the helm of BrewDog, there have been highs and lows, ups and downs, crazy successes and incredibly hard challenges. When I look back on the last 17 years (119 Dog Years) my overwhelming feeling is one of gratitude.”
Reality star Georgia Toffolo said she had ‘never been more proud’ of her partner in the wake of the announcement.
Watt will now take some time off to spend time with friends and family before booking in a well-deserved holiday.
Brewdog operates in more than 70 countries worldwide and boasts bars in all the major cities across the UK, including several spots in London, Manchester, Leeds, and Sheffield.
