Compass Group UK & Ireland CEO Robin Mills announces retirement

Robin Mills, chief executive of Compass Group UK & Ireland, has confirmed he will retire this summer after 19 years with the business.

He joined the catering giant in 2008 and was appointed to the Compass Group executive committee in 2015.

In 2019, he was appointed CEO of the group’s UK and Ireland business, having previously served as managing director of Chartwells, UK and group chief people officer.

The UK and Ireland business doubled in size during his tenure, with Mills having played a critical role in acquiring CH&Co and its multitude of brands for £475m in 2024.

Mills also served as chair of the Compass Group Foundation following its launch in 2023, which has since supported more than 21,000 people and backed in excess of 300 small enterprises globally.

Prior to joining Compass, he held senior HR roles at Scottish and Newcastle Breweries, Diageo and Kingfisher.

Mills said: “It has been a privilege to lead the UK and Ireland business and to work alongside so many talented and dedicated colleagues. I am proud of what we have achieved as a business and how we have achieved it – by putting people first, supporting one another and never losing sight of the important role we play for our clients, customers and the communities where we work.

“I leave with immense pride in what we have accomplished together and have great confidence in its future. Compass is a special organisation, defined by its culture, values and people. I will greatly miss being part of the Compass family and would like to thank my colleagues, our clients and partners and everyone who has supported me along the way.”

Dominic Blakemore, chief executive, Compass Group added: “I would like to thank Robin for his significant contribution, integrity and leadership over many years. He has placed positive social impact at the heart of the UK and Ireland growth strategy, helping to establish industry-leading standards in sustainability, social mobility and wellbeing. He is chair of the Compass Group Foundation, and we are delighted that he will continue in this role following his retirement. I appreciate his ongoing commitment to create lasting impact with Compass and wish him the very best for this new chapter.”

Charlie Brown, currently executive director, strategic partnerships, has been appointed interim CEO to support a smooth transition in the coming months.

Brown has held senior roles across Compass’ UK & Ireland business over the past 19 years.

A permanent CEO appointment process is underway, with a successor to be confirmed in due course.

Compass Group UK & Ireland is the largest food and support services provider in the region.