Young’s has announced that Patrick Dardis will be stepping down as Chief Executive Officer at this year’s AGM on 5 July 2022. On that date, he will be succeeded by Simon Dodd, Chief Operating Officer, who was recruited three years ago with succession planning in mind.
Dardis will remain on the Board and will stay on to oversee the transition to Dodd, until he retires at the end of September. He will remain available to the Company for the remainder of his notice period through to the end of March 2023.
Dodd has a wealth of experience, having spent more than a decade working in the pub and brewing sector. Prior to joining Young’s he was on the board of Fuller, Smith & Turner P.L.C. and before that with Orchid Pub Company, and has held a number of brand and marketing roles in the hospitality sector. Simon has impressed the Board by immersing himself fully in all aspects of the business.
Dardis has had a long and successful 20-year career at Young’s, of which 19 have been on the Board and the last six years as CEO. He has achieved a huge amount during this time, not least navigating the Company through Covid, one of the most challenging periods in its long history.
With trading returning to normal, we have a strong balance sheet and capacity to invest further in the business now focused on premium managed pubs.
Chairman Steve Goodyear said, “I have really enjoyed working with Patrick over the last 20 years. He has worked very effectively and with great energy and passion for the business. On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank him for his huge contribution and his many successful achievements during his time at Young’s.”
Dardis said, “Now is the right time to hand over the reins to Simon and the rest of the team at Young’s. I leave behind a great business, in good shape with a very talented team. It has been a privilege to lead a business with so many fantastic people in it and I would like to thank all of my colleagues for their support and contribution over the last 20 years.”