Pret A Manger CEO Clive Schlee has announced that he will be retiring from his position at the end of September, 2019.
Following his retirement, Schlee will maintain a role in the business as non-executive director.
Pret's current chief operating officer, Pano Christou, will become the company's CEO after Schlee's departure.
"A Good Time" To Pass The Torch
In a statement on Pret A Manger's website, Schlee said, "There is never an easy time to stop being CEO of a wonderful company, but, with the completion of our EAT deal [on Tuesday July 2] and the roll out of the Pret Allergy Plan, now is a good time for a new CEO to take Pret on the next stage of its journey. I'm really pleased Pano is taking over. He knows our shops through and through, and will keep Pret true to the values that have underpinned its success."
"Honoured"
Meanwhile, Christou commented, "I am honoured to follow Clive as CEO. Pret has big plans for the next few years – integrating EAT, developing Veggie Pret, delivering our digital transformation, and leading the way in supporting customers with allergies. I want to thank Clive for his leadership over the last sixteen years, and we look forward to building on his legacy."
© 2019 Hospitality Ireland – your source for the latest industry news. Article by Dave Simpson. Click subscribe to sign up for the Hospitality Ireland print edition.