In his new role, Stefan will report to Didier Debrosse, regional president, Western Europe, and will join the Western Europe management team.

Jean-François van Boxmeer, Heineken CEO said: “I am delighted that Stefan has accepted this critical leadership role in one of our highest priority markets. He has the right attributes and experience to address the considerable challenges of the UK market. He has worked directly with the UK management team on their commercial strategy and has an outstanding track record in both general and commercial management. He has made a significant contribution to our business both as the leader of our global commercial function and as a member of the Executive Committee.”

A successor to Stefan both as group commerce director, and as an executive committee member will be announced in due course.