Pub operator and brewer Brakspear has recruited Peter Furness-Smith as a non-executive director, with a particular focus on helping to develop the company’s expanding managed estate.
Furness-Smith retired this summer from McMullens, the Hertfordshire brewer and pub retailer, where he served nearly 20 years as managing director. McMullens has 85 managed and 35 tenanted pubs.
Previously, Furness-Smith spent 10 years as retail director of brewer and pub operator Morland. He also worked for Whitbread, including a stint as a manager of a Beefeater Steakhouse, and spent time in the City and the Army.
Furness-Smith said, “I’ve been impressed with what Brakspear has achieved over the last few years, particularly the clear market positioning they have developed for each of their pubs.
“I like their focus on people and the culture that exists across the business of genuinely putting customers first, and helping good individuals and teams to achieve their potential. The Brakspear managed estate looks set for great things and I look forward to helping the team to develop this side of the business.”
Brakspear chief executive Tom Davies said, “Having someone of Peter’s calibre to advise and guide us is a tremendous asset and we are delighted to have him on board. His experience over many years in the hospitality industry, particularly at McMullens with its sizeable managed estate, will prove invaluable as we seek to build our own managed business.
Brakspear’s managed estate stands at nine pubs including four sites in the Cotswolds as well as Henley-on-Thames, Marlow, Mickleham in Surrey, Staines and Shepherd’s Bush. Three more sites are scheduled to open later this year.
Furness-Smith joins Brakspear’s existing non-executive directors Ed Turner and Tim Davies.
Caption: Tom Davies with Peter Furness-Smith in the Bull on Bell Street, Henley-on-Thames
