Marston's chairman to step down after five years

The chair of pub and brewing giant Marston's is to step down after five and a half years.

William Rucker has informed the board of his decision and will leave his role as director and chair from 8 July.

Rucker joined Marston's in 2018 while chief executive of investment bank Lazard and previously chaired property firm Crest Nicholson.

Marston's said in an announcement that the move came "in view of his other increased business commitments" which will see him become chair designate of British Land from 9 July.

"It has been a real privilege and honour to serve as chair of Marston's PLC," said Rucker.

"I am confident that Marston's is in great shape and in good hands as the company prepares for the next phase of its development with chief executive officer, Justin Platt, at the helm. I wish Justin and the wider team every success in the future."

Marston's operates 1,415 pubs nationwide and employs about 11,000 people.

The group's nominations committee, led by senior independent director Octavia Morley, is overseeing the search for Rucker's successor.