Wagamama UK CEO Thomas Heier has stepped down after eight years at the restaurant chain.
Heier first joined the business in 2017 as people director before taking over as CEO in 2021.
Wagamama owner The Restaurant Group CFO Mark Chambers will take on the role of UK CEO at the Asian-inspired restaurant from 2 June, alongside his current position.
“Thomas’s contribution to Wagamama has been immense,” said TRG CEO Andy Hornby, adding that Heier was “instrumental in building the culture that makes Wagamama so unique” through his role as people director.
”He then took over as CEO of Wagamama in 2021 and has successfully led the business through numerous challenges, including the last stages of Covid, the cost of living crisis and the numerous cost pressures that have faced the whole sector.”
Heier added: “Whilst I’m extremely excited about what comes next, I leave knowing the business is in a strong position for the future, and I look forward to watching the next phase of growth and innovation. I’ll always be cheering the team on from the sidelines.”
The changes form part of a wider leadership shake-up, which will see Hornby taking on responsibility for Wagamama’s overseas operations.
Meanwhile, Gibsons Restaurant Group COO Stephen Judge will join as CEO of Wagamama USA on 9 June.
He brings a wealth of experience in the hospitality sector to the role, having previously held positions including president of café operations at Hard Rock International and president and CEO of Romacorp.
TRG chairman and Apollo partner Alex van Hoek said: “Growing Wagamama’s presence in the US market is a key part of our growth plan for the business. We are pleased to have secured an individual of Stephen’s experience and quality to lead our US franchise.”
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