Vapiano UK Managing Director Phil Sermon has been appointed as chief executive officer of Vapiano in the USA.
Phil joined Vapiano in 2012 and is responsible for its two London restaurants and future expansion across the UK. The third Vapiano is currently progressing in London’s Wardour Street, and negotiations are also progressing on further London restaurants.
In his new role he will oversee the Vapiano restaurants in the USA while continuing his work with Vapiano in England, where ambitions for growth remain strong.
In the USA, Vapiano already has eleven restaurants in Washington (6), Chicago (2), and one each in Miami, Charlotte and New York. However, the Vapiano central office in Washington already has the senior staff to provide the support infrastructure necessary to expand. Phil is therefore reviewing options and opportunities before pressing ahead in 2014, which looks set to be a busy year!
Before joining Vapiano Phil had worked for a number of leading hospitality companies in the UK, including pub operator JD Wetherspoon, Hilton Hotels and contract caterers Sodexo.
Phil said: “I am delighted to have been appointed as CEO for Vapiano in the USA and look forward to the challenges ahead and ensuring the restaurants are successful.”