Marstons Share News (MARS)

(Sharecast News) - Pub group Marston's has announced the appointment of Topps Tiles finance boss Stephen Hopson as its new chief financial officer, who is said to have a "wealth of experience".

He will replace current CFO Hayleigh Lupino, who has been in the role since October 2021, but announced her resignation in March "to pursue a new opportunity outside of the group".

The appointment will take place in early September, with Lupino staying on until the end of the financial year (27 September).

Hopson, a chartered management accountant, has served as Topps CFO since November 2020 and has more than a decade of senior leadership experience across the leisure and retail sectors.

Notably, he was director of central finance for Western Europe at Molson Coors Beverage Company, and held finance director roles at Travis Perkins.

"On behalf of the whole Marston's team, I'm delighted to welcome Stephen to the business," said chief executive Justin Platt.

"He has a wealth of experience which will benefit the group as we drive forward with our strategy as a leading pure-play hospitality business, delivering increasing returns for our shareholders."

Marston's share price was up 0.1% at 41.8p by 0856 BST.