East London Brewing Company has named James Healey as its new managing director, a role previously held by owner Ronnie Finch, who took over the business last year. 

Having first been hired earlier this year as commercial director, Healey’s promotion marks a new chapter for the independent brewery, which pointed to plans to build its brands and grow the business. 

Prior to his roles at East London Brewing, Healey spent over 16 years at Damm, where he acted as UK head of on-trade. He also worked as a consultant within the beer sector. 

Happening within a wider context of change, Healey’s promotion comes a short time after the brewery announced its move into a larger space. 

Previously stationed in Leyton, the company now operates from a new site on Lockwood Way in Walthamstow. 

According to the brewers, this shift was to accommodate an expansion of its range, which includes a Heritage Collection, a Core Collection and its newest range, named East. 

Launched last year, the East collection was created to showcase a more modern approach to beer. It includes four beers: House Lager, Pilsner, Pale Ale and an IPA. 

At the same time, the brewery teased that it also had plans to expand into the on-trade with its own pub, The Blackhorse Tap, of which details are yet to be announced.