Comptoir Group PLC on Friday said it hired former Leon chain manager Nick Ayerst as the new chief executive officer.
Shares were up 5.7% at 4.86 pence each on Friday morning in London.
The Lebanese restaurant owner said Ayerst will succeed Jean-Michel Orieux from Monday next week. Orieux has been interim CEO since August and now will revert to his role as independent non-executive director.
Comptoir said the appointment significantly ‘strengthens the senior leadership team as the company seeks to accelerate its growth trajectory, investing in the brand and customer experience, accelerating the opening of new restaurants and exploiting opportunities in franchising and wholesale’.
Ayerst will bring over 30 years’ experience in the hospitality industry. He was previously the manager of healthy fast-food chain Leon Restaurants Ltd, where he was brought onboard in 2020 to restructure its operational model, investing in technology and increasing efficiencies and to develop growth strategies.
Prior to this, he spent 15 years in leadership roles at Wagamama noodle shop chain owner Restaurant Group PLC.
Chief Executive Officer Nick Ayerst said: ‘I am joining Comptoir group at an exciting time for the company. The strength of the Comptoir brand, talented team and vision of the new board to grow the business and deliver a best in class offering for its guests make this a great opportunity.’
Early last month, the company named Beatrice Lafon as its new chair, after Chair Richard Kleiner and CEO Chaker Hanna resigned with immediate effect.
Back in June, Comptoir received a letter from founder Tony Kitous, requesting that the two executives resign. Kitous holds a 48% stake in Comptoir.
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