John's Journey from Pub Manager to Head of Brewery Engagement

With a keen eye for opportunity and a thirst for new challenges, John embarked on a journey with Greene King that has been nothing short of exceptional. John’s journey began when he recognised the right job, at the right time, leading him to the welcoming doors at Greene King.

John’s genuine dedication sparked a profound passion for empowering others, setting passions for empowering others, setting the stage for a remarkable career that continues to unfold.

Sales Development Manager 2007-11 - Field sales role in the midlands, managing a territory of independent free trade customers (Pubs, Social Clubs etc). Selling a range of beers, wines, soft drinks and spirits.

Regional Development Manager 2011-15 - Supporting SDMs to develop through training and coaching while continuing to manage a base of key customers.

Regional Export Manager 2016-18 - Managing import partners across key global markets - Asia, Australia, Scandinavia and Europe. Travelling for 15-20 weeks a year helping develop key markets, China, Australia, Japan, Sweden, Spain and Denmark.

National Account Controller 2018-22 - Managing team of National Account Managers (NAMs) developing sales plans for key National On Trade customers (mainly pub companies, Greene King, JD Wetherspoon, M&B, Stonegate)

Head of Brewery Engagement 2022-present - Supporting Greene King's key On Trade partners driving an agenda of beer quality and brand advocacy for our market-leading beer brands.

In my early roles I was almost entirely field-based and, as such was largely unaware of the scale of the Greene King business. My 'GK universe' consisted of my immediate team and a few support roles. As my career has developed I have been fortunate to get to work with departments in almost every channel, brand and function. As such I now count hundreds of colleagues as friends - all of whom have helped me develop both personally and professionally.

Greene King has been a fantastic place to develop my career. I have been very fortunate to have enjoyed a number of different roles. I would encourage anyone curious about their next step to be proactive and ask for time with other business functions to work out what might be suitable for them.

The people. Lockdown, and the period coming out of it was a real struggle. It made me realise how much I feed off the energy of my team and wider colleagues.

What are you waiting for! I have made so many good friends, travelled to places I would never have been to and laughed my head off for the last 16 years. Bring on the next 16...