Chapel Down names new chief executive
Wine producer and retailer Chapel Down has appointed James Pennefather as its new chief executive officer, with effect from 1 February.
Pennefather was previously chief executive of The Lakes Distillery Company where he led the company’s sale to The Nyetimber Group earlier this year.
Prior to that, he held a range of leadership roles at William Grant & Sons and Diageo across the UK, Middle East, Africa and India.
Martin Glenn, chairman of Chapel Down Group, said: “We are delighted to have appointed James, who is an outstanding business leader with deep experience in building premium drinks brands within emerging categories, developing strong customer relationships in the UK and globally and enhancing shareholder value.
“Chapel Down has made excellent progress as a business and a brand, and James is well placed to continue Chapel Down’s development and growth.”
Chapel Down has also announced that Rob Smith will be stepping down as chief financial officer, but will remain with the business until the publication of its full year results around April 2025. A search for his successor will be commencing shortly.
Meanwhile, Stewart Gilliland has resigned his position on the board after three years of service as a non-executive director.
Chapel Down has also confirmed that trading in the final quarter of the year has been strong and that its full year position remains in line with management expectations.
