Longbottom has been CEO at Stonegate, which owns the Slug and Lettuce, Be At One and Popworld brands, for the past eight years. Prior to taking up the role in October 2014 he was managing director at Greene King (2010-2014).
He leaves to pursue interests abroad, but will remain a shareholder and will be working alongside founder and chairman Ian Payne to ensure a smooth succession.
McDowall joined BrewDog in December 2014 as MD of its retail division, before becoming CEO Retail, group COO and the COO and president in November 2020.
He is expected to join Stonegate Group in early 2023 and will work alongside Longbottom until spring in order to facilitate an orderly handover.
Simon Longbottom commented: “It has been an honour to lead the team which has taken Stonegate from a challenger brand to industry leader in just eight years. From our pubs and bars to our people, the talent, passion and pride within the business is second-to- none and I have every confidence there are even more exciting times to come.
“It’s been an amazing journey but the time is now right for me to pursue other interests abroad. As a shareholder and a fan, I will be supporting the business from afar and wish Ian, David and the wider team continued success.”
Ian Payne, chairman of Stonegate Group, said: “The Board would like to thank Simon for his significant contribution to the Group’s success over the last eight years. During this time, Simon has been a much valued member of the senior team in building Stonegate Group into the leading pub and bar business which it is today.
“Looking to the future, Simon leaves Stonegate in excellent health and trading extremely well. The Board is confident that David will continue to drive Stonegate forward and take advantage of the many opportunities ahead.”
David McDowall said: “Stonegate is an outstanding business, with a clear strategy, highly capable management team and hugely exciting future. I am passionate about pubs and the wider brewing sector and am looking forward to be joining the team and further unlocking the clear potential of this great business.”