Bartlett Mitchell announces management reshuffle

Boutique contract caterer Bartlett Mitchell has reshuffled its management team as the company positions itself for growth.

Francois Gautreaux has been promoted to deputy managing director from his previous role of operations director, which he has held since 2008.

Bartlett Mitchell's part owner and creative director has taken on the new position of director of food services, with responsibility for implementing the company's food and service standards. He and his team will develop and roll-out new food marketing initiatives and drive the company's "fundamentally food" culture.

Sharon Linney is a new appointment and replaces Gautreaux as operations director. Her operational background has seen her working in many of the most demanding contract catering operations in the City.

More recently, Linney has broadened her experience by working in social enterprise, latterly as director of UK operations for the Create Foundation, and spearheading new apprenticeship schemes for a number of national organisations.

In addition to her operational role at Bartlett Mitchell, she will also provide guidance to the company on social enterprise issues and initiatives.

Pete Redman (below right) is another new recruit and he joins the company as executive chef, responsible for the development of new food concepts, promotional menus, chef training and assisting in the sales process.

Redman was previously with BaxterStorey where he was a site-based executive chef but also heavily involved in development and training activities for the company.

The original founders, Wendy Bartlett and Ian Mitchell, continue in their roles of managing director and chairman respectively.

Bartlett commented: "We're putting in the structure to enable our company to continue to grow and develop the type of award-winning initiatives we've become known for.

"Ian and I are just as involved as ever but this extra level of support gives us the opportunity to do things a little differently. Ian will take on more of an ‘ambassadorial' role within the company visiting our clients and operations even more frequently to share best practice and ensure the Bartlett Mitchell culture is thriving.

"With Francois very ably looking after much of the day-to-day operational challenges, I will be able to get more involved in selling our company externally and opening up new opportunities for us. It's an exciting time and we have great plans ahead for 2013 and beyond."

Mitchell added: "It's so rewarding to see how our company has grown over the years, which has given us the ability to create opportunities and promote from within the team, so our congratulations go to David and Francois.

"Our growth however, has also given us the opportunity to strengthen our existing team with new people and skills and we're delighted to welcome Sharon and Peter to the company too. Their skills fit perfectly with our growth plans and culture."

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