Jane Holbrook to take over as CEO of Wagamama
David Campbell is stepping down as chief executive of pan-Asian restaurant chain Wagamama with immediate effect, with chief operating officer Jane Holbrook taking over.
Campbell was appointed chief executive in September 2013 having worked as a chief executive of companies in sports, entertainment and media businesses for 20 years.
He joined from his role as group board director and managing director of Allsport, which is globally responsible for all Formula One advertising, sponsorship, hospitality and merchandising.
Holbrook, who replaces Campbell, joined wagamama as chief financial officer in 2014 and was promoted to chief operating officer in April 2016.
Prior to this, she spent five years at Whitbread, where she had a variety of roles including running the internal consultancy team. She then joined TDR Capital, where she worked closely with brands including Pizza Express, ASK, Zizzi and GBK, before serving as chief financial officer with restaurant groups including Soho House, Caprice Holdings and Birley Group and Novus Leisure.
Holbrook said: "I am delighted to take on the role as CEO of this fast growing international business. In Wagamama we have a category leading business in the UK which is now really building an international presence both in Europe and into the US. We have an exciting journey and future ahead of us.
"I would personally like to thank David for his many years at the helm. His leadership has been inspiring and has helped in establishing Wagamama's current strong position - probably the strongest and healthiest it has ever been in our long 25 year history.
"Together over the last 12 months David and I have, along with other members of the executive team, devised and set out the business's current growth strategy. It is such an exciting and unique opportunity ahead as we continue growing the business, both domestically and internationally.
"Over the course of my career I have learned that high performance comes from happy teams and strong leadership. My focus will be on providing both, as well as ensuring that our customers have a great experience whenever they spend time with us."
Wagamama reports record results for Q1 fiscal year 2017 >>
Strong increases in turnover and profit for Wagamama >>
Wagamama appoints customer director >>
Wagamama to open first site in Italy >>
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