David Buttress makes sudden exit as Just Eat CEO

Online food ordering and delivery service Just Eat announced on Friday that, due to urgent family matters, David Buttress had informed the board of his intention to step down from his role as chief executive officer.

The FTSE 250 company said Buttress would continue to work full time in the company until the end of the first quarter, at which time John Hughes - who has been chairman of the board for almost six years - will assume the role of executive chairman.

It said Hughes will work closely with Buttress and chief financial officer Paul Harrison to ensure a “smooth and orderly” handover.

The board also said it was commencing an immediate search to find a replacement for Buttress, who had also agreed to serve a minimum one-year term as a non-executive director.

“It has been a great privilege to work alongside, and then lead, the exceptional team at Just Eat, helping to build the business from the very first restaurant in the UK to the company it is today,” commented David Buttress.

“I would like to thank the board for their understanding, and I am very pleased that I will be able to continue to play a role in the future of the business as a non-executive director.

“This has been one of the best jobs in the world, and I wish my successor all the best when they take on the role.”

John Hughes said the board wanted to thank Buttress for his “outstanding contribution”, and respected his imminent need to focus on other important matters.

“David has been an incredible leader and colleague, who has earned the respect and loyalty of all who work with him at Just Eat.

“David will leave as CEO with the business in excellent health and with an experienced leadership team at the helm.”

Hughes added that the board was looking forward, in due course, to welcoming Buttress as a non-executive director.

“I will work closely with Paul Harrison and the rest of the team as we recruit David's successor, and we will provide an update on that process in due course.

“The company is very strongly positioned for the future.”