Leighton is also the former CEO of Pandora, and current chairman of the Co-operative Group, Royal Mail, Entertainment One, Element Materials Technology Group, and Wagamama.
"BrewDog has built an incredible market position and brand in a short space of time," says Leighton, who replaces Blythe Jack in the role.
"It continues to grow quickly all over the world, has a fantastic team of people, and an outstanding sustainability story to tell. I look forward to playing my role in ensuring the company has the right governance in place to capitalise on the opportunities ahead.”
In addition to his role as chairman, Leighton will act as mentor to BrewDog CEO James Watt, providing counsel on leadership and governance matters, as the company enters its next phase of growth, in particular expanding its international footprint.
“We are delighted Allan is joining us. He brings immense experience and a phenomenal track record to BrewDog," says Watt.
"I have no doubt we will all benefit from his insight and leadership. As we continue to build our business and implement a range of initiatives to become the best business we can be, Allan’s mentorship and personal guidance will be invaluable. I would like to thank Blythe for her continued support. Her advice has been hugely appreciated and I am so pleased she will continue to sit on the Board.”
Jack was appointed chairperson earlier this year and has been a BrewDog director since 2017.
As part of her role, she was tasked with overseeing the recruitment process for a fully independent chair in order to ensure the composition of the board is moving towards meeting the requirements of the UK Corporate Governance Code.
Jack will remain on the Board as deputy chairperson and will also continue to oversee the previously announced culture review.
“This is an exciting time for the business as we build on the momentum from recent success to reach our full potential," she says.
"We are thrilled that someone of Allan’s calibre has agreed to lead the business through its next phase of growth. I am pleased to be staying on the Board as deputy chairperson and to continue leading the ongoing culture review that was commissioned earlier this year.
"This review is of huge importance to BrewDog and to the Board as we continually strive to be the best organization we can be.”
BrewDog currently has 99 of its 104 bars and hotels around the world open and operating within relevant Covid-19 guidelines.
