One of the UK’s most renowned master crafters of beer, Woodforde’s Brewery has recently undergone an innovative rebrand, as well as welcomed new names to the helm.
Woodforde’s rebrand, linking it with the legacy of Norfolk’s favourite son, Admiral Lord Nelson, was orchestrated by the new CEO, James Hughes (pictured) and COO, Nick Dolan, widening the reach, distribution and profile of the brand.
A real ale fan at the cutting edge of the sector, Hughes has been passionate about the industry for over 15 years. With much of his career spent working in beer and spirits companies, both in the UK and internationally, his experience spans every channel in the business.
Before joining Woodforde’s, Hughes led teams in various roles including Commercial Development at Diageo in the UK and Africa, and in Business Planning and Category Strategy for Sainsbury’s. His career has seen him help launch start-ups, create strategies for global brands, and transform their commercial growth.
A strong supporter of local community links and sustainable business, COO Dolan's commercial and sector expertise is founded upon his passion for sourcing and supplying quality real ale, both export and wholesale.
In 2005, Dolan founded Real Ale Ltd, opening a London store to bring quality beers to market as the demand for craft ale grew. The firm became one of only three suppliers of beer and cider to Marks & Spencer, growing the first four products into a range of nineteen lines and becoming a major contributor to M&S’s beer category.
Dolan has since brought in an entirely new management team to Woodforde's and strengthened the brand’s core range, increasing the selection of unique, seasonal flavours. Dolan will be taking the brand nationwide and increasing trade presence through new retailer and pub partnerships.
After two years away, Head Brewer, Neil Bain is back at Woodforde’s, and comes with a reputation for creating outstanding beers and a passion for sourcing only the very best hops from around the globe, He has over 40 years in the brewing industry under his belt and is a respected Master Brewer with a stellar reputation.