Searcys appoints managing director as CEO Doug Tetley departs

Catering company Searcys has appointed Chris Maddison as its new managing director, following the departure of chief executive Doug Tetley.

Tetley, who has spent four years as chief executive of Searcys, having joined from Aramark in 2010, is to take up a new role as managing director of Delaware North UK.

Maddison, formerly sales and marketing director at Searcys, will now take the helm after four years of spearheading the company's growth in both the contract and retail sides of the business.

Commenting on the moves, Searcys chairman Richard Tear said: "In recent years Chris has built very good relationships with our clients and has played a key role in ensuring that Searcys has lived up to their expectations, so his appointment has been very well received.

"We have been adamant throughout the recent process around securing new investment that we wanted stability and peace of mind for everyone within our day to day operation, and Chris provides that with his in-depth knowledge of both Searcys and its clients.

"The company also wish to thank current CEO Doug Tetley, for the very significant role he has played in getting Searcys to the position it currently occupies. Everyone wishes him success for the future."

Tetley said: "My time at Searcys has been hugely enjoyable and over the past four years we have achieved many of our goals.

"It was always my intention to see Searcys through to this point in its journey and I am proud to have played a part in its success."

Tetley will start his new role at Delaware North rom 22 April and will report to John Wentzell, president of Delaware North's Sportservice & UK operating subsidiaries.

Wentzell said: "I am confident Doug's leadership qualities, strategic thinking and breadth of experience will enhance our existing business and drive future growth in the UK market. We are excited to have someone of his professional achievement joining the team. His strong client-centric approach will ensure highly collaborative and dynamic partnerships across our UK businesses."

Searcys is thought to be nearing the conclusion of a sale process. It was put on the market in November last year with a price tage of £25-£30m.

Searcys faces break-up as bidders shun single entity sale >>