News
Okell’s has strengthened its senior leadership team with a series of key appointments as the business continues to deliver its long-term growth strategy across its pubs, brewing and hospitality operations.
Following the restructure earlier this year with Ollie Neale leading as Managing Director of Okell’s Inns and Brewery, the business has welcomed three highly experienced industry leaders from across the UK, bringing additional expertise and fresh perspectives to support the next phase of growth.
Supporting the evolution of the pub estate
Andy McCulloch has joined Okell’s from Marston’s to lead the transition of 22 Isle of Man pubs to the company’s new Managed Operator model.
The transformation programme is already gaining momentum, with four sites successfully converted in the past month. The new operating model is designed to empower operators while maintaining the quality, standards and customer experience that guests expect from Okell’s pubs.
Investing in heritage hospitality
Rohan Aldcroft, formerly of Oakman Group and Upham Inns, has been appointed to lead the Okell’s Heritage division, overseeing the company’s remaining managed pubs.
His appointment comes at an exciting time for the division, with a significant investment programme planned across the estate. Future developments include the introduction of guest accommodation at selected locations and a renewed focus on delivering exceptional local food, drink and hospitality experiences.
Strengthening brewing and commercial operations
Joining from Heineken and Big Penny Social, Frank Maguire will lead Okell’s commercial and brewing operations.
Frank brings extensive experience across brewing, hospitality and commercial development, helping to support the continued growth of one of Britain’s oldest brewing businesses while creating new opportunities for the Okell’s brand.
These appointments represent a significant milestone for the business and underline both the ambition of Okell’s and the attractiveness of the Isle of Man as a destination for talented hospitality professionals.
Commenting on the appointments, Mark Crowther, Chairman of Heron & Brearley, said “This is an incredibly exciting time for Okell’s. We have spent the last year developing a clear strategy for the future of the business and are now firmly focused on delivery.
The calibre of people we have been able to attract to the Isle of Man demonstrates both the strength of our ambition and the opportunity that exists within the business. Andy, Rohan and Frank each bring exceptional experience, fresh perspectives and a proven track record of success, and together with Ollie they form a leadership team that will help drive the next phase of growth for Okell’s.
As we continue to invest in our pubs, brewing operations and customer experience, these appointments will play a vital role in ensuring that Okell’s remains at the heart of the Island’s hospitality sector for generations to come.”
