Simon Cope has been appointed as Managing Director of Byron Hamburgers Ltd (“Byron”). Simon joins from Wagamama, another Hutton Collins Partners LLP (“Hutton Collins”) portfolio company, where, over the past four years, he played a significant role in the turnaround that has seen double digit like-for-like growth for the last three consecutive years.
Joining Byron in July, Simon will sit on the Executive Board and lead the next stage of the brand’s evolution, focusing on marketing, food development and property. He will report to acting Executive Chairman, Dalton Philips, until the search for a new Chief Executive Officer is complete.
Simon comments: “As the pioneers of proper hamburgers in the UK, Byron is uniquely well placed to take advantage of the significant growth opportunity that exists for premium brands in the UK’s casual dining market. I’m delighted to be joining such an inspirational team, helping to build Byron’s future at this exciting time.”
Dalton Philips, acting Executive Chairman, said: “I’m thrilled that Simon’s joining the team. Coming from within the Hutton Collins family, he brings with him a wealth of experience and great ideas, with a first class track record of delivery. He knows this sector inside out, and we’re delighted he’s joining the team. I’m really looking forward to working with him as we continue to grow the business.”
Hutton Collins invested in Byron in 2013, in a transaction worth £100 million.