Heineken UK and Beavertown Brewery have announced a series of senior leadership changes as they push towards the next phase of development for the two businesses.

The on-trade sales director at Heineken UK, Will Rice, is set to take on the role of managing director for Beavertown.

As part of the new position, he will oversee the growth of the brewery as it continues to operate as a separate company with its own identity, with a portfolio of brands including the Neck Oil craft beer.

Additionally, Jochen Van Esch, MD of Beavertown Brewery, will depart from the role and return to the Heineken Group after three and a half years.

Prior to his role at the brewery, he spent five years working at Heineken UK and managing the partnership between Beavertown and Heineken.

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The operations director for Heineken UK’s subsidiary Star Pubs, Mick Howard, is set to step into the position of on-trade sales director for the Group.

As part of his new position, he will oversee Heineken UK’s on-trade strategy and focus on delivering profitable growth.

MD of Heineken UK, Boudewijn Haarsma, said: “These moves reflect our focus on putting proven, high-impact leaders where they can make the biggest difference for customers and growth.

“Will has an outstanding track record in the on-trade, and he is the right leader to guide Beavertown through its next phase of growth while it continues to operate as a separate company with its own distinctive identity.”

The new appointments will take place effective on 1 June 2026.