Martin Williams named CEO of Evolv Collection

D&D London, which will rebrand to the Evolv Collection in April, has appointed former Rare Restaurants boss Martin Williams as chief executive officer. 

Williams, who left Rare Restaurants in October 2024 after seven years heading up the Gaucho and M Restaurants group, will join the Evolv Collection at the end of March.

He replaces co-founder and former chief executive David Loewi, who stepped down in November after nearly 30 years in the business launched by Sir Terence Conran.

The changes come after D&D London was sold to Calveton and Breal Capital for around £60m in 2023.

Earlier this week it was announced that the business would rebrand to Evolv. It will launch a new loyalty club and website, and has plans to launch Bluebird in the City as a sister concept to Bluebird Chelsea at South Place hotel.

In a company update to employees of the group, Evolv Collection board director Simon Wilkinson said: “Martin joins us at a very exciting time for the business. Following a focussed period of stabilisation and transformation, we’re looking forward to him leading us into the next phase of both organic and acquisitive growth. 

“On the back of a record festive trading period, a strong January and the our first major refurbishment for many years, the business is well positioned for Martin to evolve and grow the business further.”

Williams said he was excited to begin the next chapter of his 25 year hospitality career. 

He added: “I have been a regular guest at all the Evolv Collection for the past two decades, and have long admired the brands, offering and talent within our restaurants; so the opportunity to lead the company as CEO is a dream role for me.”