TGI Friday's promotes Darrell Wade to chief operating officer

TGI Friday's has promoted Darrell Wade to chief operating officer as part of a board restructure.

Wade previously occupied the role of commercial director and has overseen the UK commercial department for the past five years.

The appointment will support TGI Friday's next stage of business growth by aligning the operations team with the brand and concept team, the company said.

Meanwhile, Cain Savizzi has been given the role of senior director of operations, and Terry McDowell, has taken on the role of head chef and concept development manager.

Savizzi will be supported by Lee Zurybida, who is promoted to operations service manager

TGI Friday's UK managing director Karen Forrester said: "Friday's is leading the industry with several new restaurants in the pipeline, brilliant business performance and several awards, including our recent third place finish in Sunday Times Best Places to Work.

Wade said: "I'm relishing taking on this new role and look forward to continuing to work with the rest of the board, and our thousands of team members across the country, in driving the growth and development of Friday's and ensuring operational excellence for all of our guests. It's a phenomenally exciting time to be the COO of Friday's and I'm looking forward to the challenge."

TGI Friday's has 56 restaurants across the UK in a range of locations.