AG Barr appoints former Sainsbury’s CFO Darren Shapland as Board Chair
The appointment strengthens AG Barr’s board leadership as the drinks group continues executing its long-term growth and brand development strategy.
UK – AG Barr has appointed former Sainsbury’s Chief Financial Officer Darren Shapland as independent non-executive director and chair of the board, effective September 1, 2026.
Shapland brings four decades of financial, operational and governance experience across major UK retail, leisure and consumer businesses as the drinks group continues to pursue its long-term growth strategy.
He currently serves as non-executive chair of Hollywood Bowl Group and independent non-executive director at JD Sports Fashion. His previous board roles include non-executive chair of Topps Tiles and Poundland, as well as non-executive director and audit committee chair at Ladbrokes and Ferguson.
Shapland’s executive career includes senior leadership positions at Burton Group, followed by chief financial officer roles at Superdrug, Carpetright and J Sainsbury. He later became chief executive officer of Carpetright.
At AG Barr, Shapland will chair the nomination committee and serve on the remuneration and ESG committees.
His appointment follows a period of interim board leadership. Susan Barratt, who served as interim chair, will return to her role as senior independent director.
Louise Smalley will step down as interim senior independent director but remain on the board as an independent non-executive director and chair of the remuneration committee.
AG Barr CEO Euan Sutherland welcomed Shapland’s appointment, highlighting his experience across consumer and financial businesses.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome Darren to AG Barr. His wealth of consumer, commercial, and financial expertise will be invaluable as we continue to drive long-term value for our shareholders, build our brand momentum, and execute our growth strategy,” Sutherland said.
Shapland said AG Barr’s “unique heritage” and brand portfolio positioned the company for its next stage of development.
“I am delighted to be taking over as Chair at such a pivotal time in the Company’s journey,” he said.
“I look forward to working with Euan and Susan, and the rest of the Board and executive leadership team to support the business in achieving its long-term strategic objectives.”
The appointment comes as AG Barr continues developing its established drinks brands and implementing its growth strategy under its existing executive leadership.
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