Carling owner Molson Coors Beverage Company has promoted Simon Kerry to Western Europe managing director to lead the division’s next stage of growth.

Kerry, who will begin the role on 24 February, takes over from Phil Whitehead, who was named president and chief executive of the international brewer’s Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA), and Asia-Pacific (APAC) divisions last month.

Kerry has spent the past 13 years at Molson Coors, formerly as finance director for the UK and Ireland, before becoming EMEA and APAC chief financial officer in 2019.

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Commenting on the appointment, Whitehead said: “Simon knows our local and international business very well and has been an instrumental part of our company’s performance over a number of years. He has the drive and vision required for the next stage of our journey and the continued evolution of our brand portfolio.

“A great leader and passionate ambassador for our wider beer and hospitality industry, I can think of no one better to take us forward from here.”

Kerry added: “What this business has achieved over the past few years, particularly coming out of the pandemic and rebuilding in a very volatile economic environment, is a testament to the passion and commitment of our people and the strength of our brands.

“I feel privileged to take on this role and to have the opportunity to lead this business through its next chapter.”