Novus Leisure , the premium bar and restaurant operator of 46 high profile bars, restaurants and late night venues in locations in London’s City and West End and regional cities nationwide, has appointed Toby Smith as CEO of Novus, with immediate effect.
Toby joins Novus from Stonegate Pub Company where he spent the previous eight years in senior roles, initially with Laurel and subsequently as CEO of Town and City Pub Company until its sale to TDR Capital when he became CEO of the enlarged group in 2011. He joins Novus with over 20 years’ experience in the leisure sector.
Toby replaces Tim Cullum who has taken the decision to leave the Group. Tim was appointed COO in June 2013 and was appointed CEO shortly afterwards during a period of significant change for the Group. Tim has led Novus throughout that period and has been instrumental in improving the operational standards of the business, in particular, and delivering the successful repositioning of three of the Group’s key sites. Tim has worked tirelessly to bring about these achievements and the Board would like to place on record their appreciation for his efforts. Tim will remain with Novus for a suitable handover period in order assist Toby in his new role.
Toby Smith commented: “I am delighted to be joining Novus at such an exciting time in its history. Without doubt it has the best located sites of any UK leisure operator and I am looking forward to working with the team to create the best premium business in the country.”
Novus continues to refresh and evolve the estate to further consolidate its leading central London footprint. The business has successfully re-launched three sites in London: Forge, Core and Shadow Lounge which are producing weekly sales uplifts of in excess of 30% against pre-investment levels. A number of similar investments are planned in the coming months. Novus continues to invest in improving its customer experience and building upon its strong market position.