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Meet The Team

ManagementOps TeamOffice Team

James Waddington
CEO

I am an experienced operations executive with 15+ years in management roles across the licensed trade sector. I began my career as a site manager with the Devonshire Pub Company Ltd before moving into a variety of operational positions at Honeycomb Leisure plc. This gave me hands-on experience running individual pubs and later overseeing a portfolio of 12 sites as an area manager.

I then moved into a national pub management company where I led operations across up to 100 trading sites and 40 tenanted units on behalf of a leading administrator. During this time, I managed key relationships with major industry clients including Punch Taverns, Enterprise Inns, Daniel Thwaites, Coop Bank and BDO. I hold a BA (Hons) in Marketing from the University of Manchester.

Outside of work, I am a 6th Degree Black Belt in ITF Tae Kwon Do. I am a member of the England Team and also a coach. I have won multiple British and English titles, achieved medals at both European and World level and continue to compete internationally every year.

Rob Johnson
Managing Director

I began my career in accountancy in 2009 and qualified fully in 2015. During the first ten years of my career, I gained broad experience across multiple sectors as an outsourced financial controller. I focused on designing systems that produce reliable financial information and optimising financial processes for a range of businesses, alongside other roles while working in practice.

In 2019, I moved from practice into industry, joining a recently listed retail and tech business. I became Head of Commercial Finance and supported the teams through a phase of rapid growth. Inglenook Inns & Taverns was one of my major clients over the last five years. My role centred on assisting the business through multiple high-value transactions during that period.

After supporting Inglenook with its investment and acquisitions in May 2021, I joined the team full time. I now work closely with the CEO, focusing on delivering the company’s ambitious growth plans.

Diane Ashworth
Internal Operations Director

Hi, I’m Diane.

I’ve held a number of senior management roles within the financial sector and joined Inglenook Inns & Taverns / Ignition Pub Management to lead the office team and oversee day-to-day financial operations across the group.

In my role, I focus on strong financial management and control, supporting the delivery of business objectives while constantly reviewing and improving our systems and processes. My priority is driving profitable outcomes and protecting the financial health of the business.

I’m also responsible for developing and implementing financial strategies that support the company’s growth plans, ensuring our financial structure is aligned with long-term success.

Outside of work, I like spending time with family, walking in the Lakes, regular dog walks with Ralph, which usually involve a coffee or a white wine!

Jodie Leigh
Operations Director

Hi, I’m Jodie.

I started in hospitality at 17 and earned my personal licence on my 18th birthday. I have worked for two of the UK’s five major pub companies, Marston’s and Admiral Taverns, before joining Inglenook where I now lead as Operations Director. Hospitality has always been more than a job to me, it is something I genuinely love.

In my role, I focus on galvanising, organising and challenging teams to perform at their best. I set high standards and consistently drive results, regularly topping financial performance tables and incentive targets. I believe in leading from the front and bringing people together to deliver strong outcomes.

My proudest achievement is my son, and I am also a very dedicated auntie to my niece and nephews. Family means a lot to me and keeps me grounded outside of work.

Chris Gibson
Food Executive

Hi, I’m Chris!

I’ve worked in hospitality since I was 15, starting out washing up in my local pub restaurant before studying at Blackpool Catering College and returning to the industry as a manager.

Since then, I’ve managed high-volume food sites across the UK and Australia, including roles with Devonshire Pub Co., Burnley Football Club, Bolton Wanderers and, most recently, Everton Stadium.

I’m now bringing that experience to Inglenook, supporting our food sites and helping our teams and venues continue to grow.

Outside of work, I’m a keen cyclist, having completed Land’s End to John O’Groats five times, and I’ve even been a trumpeter in the Bavarian Stompers Oompah Band!

Ian Leuty
Business Development Manager

My name is Ian.

After graduating university, I’ve gained over 30 years of experience in hospitality, managing a wide range of establishments in both tenant and managerial roles. Nearly four years ago, I joined Inglenook Inns & Taverns, where I continue to bring that experience into developing and supporting our pubs across the estate.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, walking and swimming. When I was younger, I also loved skiing and still have a strong interest in travel and the outdoors.

Chris Nicholson
Business Development Manager

Hello, I’m Chris.

I’ve worked in the pub and hospitality industry for over 35 years, with experience across Admiral Taverns, Marston’s, Joule’s Brewery and Bass, as well as owning and running pubs myself.

Over the years, I’ve worked across multi-site operations and business development, helping pubs grow their sales, develop their teams and become successful, customer-focused businesses.

I’m now bringing that experience to Inglenook, working closely with our managers to support their businesses, make a real difference and help our pubs reach their full potential.

Lee Ashworth
In-House Audit and System Controller

I joined the company in 2019 and initially worked as EPOS Manager before progressing into my current role as In-House Audit and Systems Controller. I oversee all pub EPOS systems and monitor performance data to improve productivity and streamline our operational practices. I enjoy finding ways to make things run more efficiently and helping our teams get the most out of the systems we use. I am also involved in future developments and updates, ensuring our technology continues to evolve alongside the business.

Outside of work, I’m a big sports fan and enjoy everything from football to darts. When I’m not watching or playing sport, you’ll usually find me walking in the Lake District, which is one of my favourite places to unwind.

Deanne Sharpe
Head of Brand & Marketing

Hello 🙂 I joined Inglenook in June 2023 and brought along five years of marketing experience from a mix of industries including housing, e-liquids, pet products, children’s play centres and science. I look after Inglenook’s online presence, creating content and campaigns that help drive footfall and build genuine engagement with our customers.

I love showcasing what makes each pub special, whether that is events, promotions or simply the story behind the venue. I am passionate about digital storytelling and making sure our pubs stay visible, competitive and full of personality online.

Outside of work, you will usually find me spending time with my German Shepherd, Cassie.

Rebecca Berry-Howarth
Management Accountant

I started my career at Inglenook through an apprenticeship and have since progressed to become part of the core team. I hold Level 4 AAT and MAAT qualifications and I am currently studying towards CIMA to further develop my expertise.

As Management Accountant, I produce the management accounts and lead on financial reporting, providing key insights that support strategic decisions and help drive the company’s growth. I am committed to maintaining strong financial control and contributing to future planning.

Outside of work, I have recently welcomed my little girl into the world, which has been an incredible new chapter for me.

Katie Riley
Social Media Specialist

Hiya, I’m Katie. I recently completed my Master’s in Digital Marketing Communications, specialising in branding, content creation and digital strategy. I joined Inglenook after looking for a role where I could apply what I’d learned in a hands-on environment, and it felt like the ideal place to start my career.

In my role, I support marketing and social media, creating content and helping manage digital channels while continuing to grow my skills day to day.

Outside of work, I enjoy hiking and spending time with friends, usually somewhere with great views and even better food.

Jean Mann
Operations Support Exec

I joined the Inglenook Group in 2021 and now work as an Operations Support Exec, supporting our operations team across a wide range of day-to-day tasks. I enjoy helping our pubs and colleagues wherever I can, while continuing to develop my knowledge and experience within the business. Alongside my role, I am currently completing an apprenticeship in Housing Property Management.

Outside of work, I love karaoke and enjoy bringing my passion for music and performance into my spare time. I also work part-time at a working men’s club, which allows me to stay involved in the local community while balancing my professional responsibilities.

Latasha Glanville
Admin & Accounts Assistant

Hi, I’m Latasha.

I’ve been part of the Inglenook team for almost five years now and I’ve adapted and grown a lot during my time here. I originally joined through Inglenook’s pub acquisition and quickly found my place within the Finance Department, strengthening the team by supporting both accounting and admin functions.

As Admin & Accounts Assistant, I work closely with tenants and suppliers to make sure our financial processes are accurate and efficient. With my experience and strong attention to detail, I help maintain the integrity of our financial records while supporting the wider team and keeping everything running smoothly.

Away from the office, I married in April 2025 which was such a special milestone. I also own two tortoises and a bearded dragon who definitely keep life interesting and often make their way into our office chats!

Michelle Grime
Purchase Ledger

Hiya, I’m Michelle.

I began my career in Sales and Marketing, selling a variety of products including concrete, cars and scientific equipment. After eight years in sales, I decided to move into finance and have since gained extensive experience within Purchase Ledger, eventually progressing to Purchase Ledger Manager for a large wholesale company.

I spent thirteen years in that role before deciding to step back from full-time work to train as a Foster Carer. At that point, I applied for a part-time position at Inglenook Inns & Taverns. This role allows me to use my knowledge and experience in finance while also giving me the flexibility to focus fully on the children in my care.

Lucas Liversage
Accounts Apprentice

I’m an Accounts Apprentice currently working towards my Level 3 AAT. I’ve been with the company for a few years now, and it’s reinforced that accounting is the career I want to continue developing in. I’m focused on building my knowledge, gaining my qualifications, and growing within the industry.

Outside of work, I make a point of staying active. I enjoy playing golf, padel, and tennis, and I regularly go to the gym. Keeping active not only balances my day-to-day routine but also complements my studies by helping me build discipline and a strong work ethic.

I’m also passionate about travelling and experiencing new places, making the most of every opportunity to see the world whilst I’m still young.

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Home
About Us
Meet The Team
Find Your Local
Run a Pub
Selling Your Pub?
Contact

Home
About Us
Meet The Team
Find Your Local
Run a Pub
Selling Your Pub?
Contact

INGLENOOK GROUP 6 ANCHOR COURT, COMMERCIAL ROAD, BLACKBURN WITH DARWEN, BB3 0DB

Tel: 01254 870 500 Email: admin@inglenookinns.co.uk

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