Fuller, Smith & Turner has announced the appointment of Katie Horner as the company’s chief financial officer (CFO) designate.

Horner, who is currently head of finance at the pub chain, will replace Neil Smith in the CFO role upon his retirement on 30 November.

Fuller’s said the appointment would ensure a “smooth and well planned transition”, with an appropriate handover period to support continuity and knowledge transfer.

Horner joined Fuller’s in 2018 as group financial controller and was promoted to head of finance in April last year. She has played a role in several of Fuller’s key transactions, including the disposal of the brewing division to Asahi in 2019, the acquisition of Lovely Pubs in 2024 and most recently the company’s bank refinancing. She also previously served as the company’s interim finance director during 2021.

“I am very excited to step into this role, and I look forward to working with the Board and leadership team to build on the Company’s strong financial position and future success,” Horner said.

Executive Chairman at Fuller’s, Simon Emeny, added: “I am delighted that Katie has accepted our invitation to join the board as the CFO. This appointment reflects our success in developing internal talent. Katie has a deep understanding of our culture and priorities, and I know she will provide excellent financial leadership.

“At the same time, I would like to thank Neil for his excellent contribution and wise counsel during his tenure with Fuller’s. He will leave the business in a strong financial position and I, together with the Board, wish him all the best for his retirement later this year.”

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