Whitbread hires Domino’s Pizza boss as new chief govt

Whitbread, the proprietor of the Premier Inn lodge chain, has confirmed the present boss of Domino’s Pizza will change Alison Brittain as its chief govt subsequent 12 months.

The hospitality firm, which additionally owns Beefeater and Brewers Fayre, mentioned Dominic Paul would take over from Brittain – one of many few feminine FTSE 100 CEOs – in the beginning of the following monetary 12 months in March 2023.

Paul led Domino’s Pizza Group all through the Covid disaster, having joined the enterprise after main Costa Espresso throughout its possession by Whitbread earlier than the cafe chain was bought to Coca-Cola in 2018.

He mentioned: “I’m delighted to have been chosen to return and lead Whitbread, a enterprise with a incredible heritage and an thrilling future each within the UK and internationally.”

Paul added that he would proceed to work with Domino’s over the following six months to make sure a easy transition.

Shares in Whitbread fell barely, by 1.63% to 2,601p, instantly after the announcement on Wednesday.

Brittain, who will depart the enterprise after eight years in cost, mentioned “it has been an unlimited pleasure” to serve within the position.

The departing chief was one of many FTSE’s most outstanding feminine leaders throughout her time on the helm of Whitbread.

She mentioned: “It has been an unlimited privilege to steer Whitbread throughout a interval of serious enlargement for our well-loved manufacturers, in each the UK and in Germany.

“I’ll proceed to be totally dedicated to the enterprise over the following few months till it’s time at hand over the baton, and I want Dominic and the entire Whitbread staff each success for the long run.”

Earlier in June, the hospitality firm cautioned its annual prices would rise by as much as £30m because it elevated pay to draw employees in a troublesome recruitment market.