Breithaupt out and McCue in at Restaurant Group
Updated : 07:46
Pub and restaurant chain operator The Restaurant Group announced on Friday that after 15 years with the company, and two years as CEO, Danny Breithaupt will step down from the board and leave the company with immediate effect.
The FTSE 250 firm’s board said it has completed the initial phase of its operating strategy review, and has decided that a new leader is needed to implement the initial actions and then prioritise the next phase of the review.
It also announced the appointment of Andy McCue as CEO, who will start with the company and join the board on 19 September.
McCue was most recently CEO at Paddy Power, where he embedded a new growth strategy which delivered record revenues and profits, as well as playing a central role in the merger with Betfair.
Prior to Paddy Power, McCue was a principal at OC&C Strategy Consultants and a manager at Andersen.
“Danny has provided strong operational leadership over the years,” said Restaurant Group chairman Debbie Hewitt.
“He has fully participated in the review of our operating strategy in a professional, conscientious and thorough way.
“We have agreed that this is an appropriate point for him to handover to a new leader who will implement the initial actions and set the priorities for this next phase of development for the business,” Hewitt explained.
She said she was also pleased to welcome McCue to the company.
“I am delighted that he will be able to lead the implementation of this initial phase of our operating strategy and then prioritise the ongoing review.
“Andy brings strong consumer, people and brand-led CEO credentials, with very relevant experience from a multi-site business,” Hewitt commented.
“His extensive strategic background, coupled with a strong commercial flair, proven hands-on operational expertise and digital credentials, will bring considerable strength and new skills to the leadership of our executive team.”
Hewitt said she will take a “more active role” in the business until McCue’s arrival, to ensure The Restaurant Group “maintains momentum” on its operating strategy review.