Iain Napier has stepped down as chief executive of Bass Brewers just weeks before the expected High Court ruling on the sale of Bass to Interbrew. Napier, also a member of Interbrew's executive management committee, announced his resignation from immediate effect to 'pursue other interests' after five years in the post. It is anticipated that Napier will receive a compensation package of almost £1m from Bass. Interbrew announced the appointment of Napier's successor, former head of Rank's holidays division before its sale to Bourne Leisure, Jerry Fowden. Fowden is returning to Bass Brewers after two-years as chief operating officer until 1996. Fowden will also be an executive vice president of Interbrew. Interbrew's chief executive, Hugo Powell, welcomed Fowden's return to the fold: I am delighted to welcome Jerry back to the Bass organisation. Given his close knowledge of the UK beverage industry, Jerry was a deliberate choice to ensure a smooth transition, stability and continuity at this time. Last week, Interbrew took the UK government to court following its blockade of the£2.3bn Bass acquisition last year, saying that the Trade Secretary, Stephen Byers', decision to make Interbrew re-sell Bass was 'grossly disproportionate'. A ruling is expected at the end of the month.