Sophie Michell appointed as Byron food director amid ongoing restructure
Sophie Michell has been appointed as Byron's food director as the firm looks to expand its offering.
Michell brings 20 years of experience to the kitchen, including roles as executive chef at the Belgraves hotel, where she was the site's youngest ever woman to hold the position, and Home House.
She has also written eight cookbooks and hosted TV shows including Cook Yourself Thin. Alongside her work at Byron she will continue to serve as part of the team behind Heathrow Terminal Two's the Gorgeous Kitchen.
Michell said: "I am very excited to be taking on this new role at Byron. It's a great brand serving food that is loved by its customers. I am really looking forward to working with Byron's passionate team to develop and expand the food offering, injecting some new flavours, whilst retaining that familiar Byron taste."
It comes after Simon Wilkinson, formerly of the Casual Dining Group and investment firm the Carlyle Group, was named as the firm's chief executive. The appointment is part of ongoing restructure of the top management team at the embattled burger chain, which was forced to close 10 restaurants last year after agreeing to a company voluntary arrangement.
Wilkinson added: "Sophie's appointment is the first key strategic initiative in our overall plan to position the brand to be the best in what is a rapidly changing market. Sophie has forged an impressive career and we are delighted she will be joining Byron as food director. Sophie's expertise, passion and enthusiasm for food will put new ideas and energy into Byron's recipes and menus as we drive the brand forward."