Kirkstall Brewery has appointed Roger Tattersall as Group Managing Director.
The Group comprises Kirkstall Brewery Co Ltd, Vertical Drinks Ltd, which operates the former North Brewing Company site, and two retail companies: Kirkstall Bridge Ltd and Kirkstall Hop Co Ltd.
Since its founding in 2011, Kirkstall has experienced impressive growth and has gained an enviable reputation for both its range of beers and award-winning pubs.
Michael Epton, who has been Financial Controller for the past 10 years, will also join the group board as Financial Director.
Tattersall, formally the CFO and co-owner of Mash Gang, has a background in the financial sector as an ACA-qualified chartered accountant, and has held several leadership roles in several industries.
“I was born in Leeds and am proud to call it home. It’s a city with an amazing brewing scene, one which still produces some of the best beers in the world.”
Tattersall’s interest in craft beer began in his 20s, when he began homebrewing and learning about the success of craft breweries in the USA. “Kirkstall has been a huge part of the Leeds brewing scene for years,” said Tattersall. “I’ve watched on with admiration as they have grown at an impressive rate over the last few years and I’m honoured to have the opportunity to be part of it.”
Founder Steve Holt said ''It is now time to strengthen the management team to be equipped to achieve further growth, extend distribution and explore new markets. I am delighted to welcome Roger into the business, who joins us at an exciting phase. Our leadership team is now poised to take Kirkstall forward through all the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.”
Tattersall added: “The brewing and hospitality industries are facing a number of headwinds, which are expected to continue into the foreseeable. However, Kirkstall is in a strong position. I fully expect us to continue our ascent, and I look forward to playing a major role in that.”
EDITOR’S NOTES:
ABOUT KIRKSTALL BREWERY
Kirkstall Brewery continues a legacy of brewing left by the Cistercian monks of Kirkstall Abbey and the Kirkstall Brewery Company of 1833-1983. Kirkstall’s own beginnings as Vertical Drinks, importing the likes of Sierra Nevada, Odell and Stone since 2003, allowed them to learn from the masters before starting their own brewery in 2011.
Alongside its most famous beers, such as Virtuous Session IPA and Three Swords Extra Pale, Kirkstall also brews a series of Prize Ales exploring the brewery’s rich history, including some recipes that are over 130 years old.
Including the Taproom & Kitchen at the brewery itself, Kirkstall currently has seven award-winning pubs across Leeds and West Yorkshire, including the historic Kirkstall Bridge Inn, the Grade II-listed Cardigan Arms and The Three Swords in Horsforth.
In December 2022, Kirkstall acquired the Leeds Brewery brand. In January 2024, Kirkstall announced a new joint venture to take on the The Victoria Hotel with the team behind Whitelock’s Ale House.
In April 2024, Kirkstall reopened The Tetley building as a “landmark of Yorkshire beer culture”, showcasing the very best of beer from Leeds and the region, alongside a wealth of historic brewery artefacts from Steve Holt’s personal collection.
Kirkstall also runs a number of highly regarded and well-loved local beer festivals, including The Great Exhibition of Prize Ales, its own Oktoberfest, and has substantial involvement in organising Leeds International Beer Festival.