Von Essen and Restaurant Associates appointments

Von Essen has appointed Charles Prew, the former chief executive of Barcelo Hotels, as chief executive – a new role created by the company.

Prew joins the group with 30 years experience at director level within the hospitality industry, from Jarvis Hotels and the Hilton Group as well as with Barcelo.

He will be responsible for continuing Von Essen’s expansion and investment strategy, working alongside managing director Nick Romano and executive finance officer Stephanie Gibbs.

Andrew Davis, chairman of von Essen hotels, said: “We are all delighted that Charles has agreed to join the team. He has a huge amount of experience at the top level of the leisure industry and I am certain that he will prove an invaluable asset to the company.

“We have recently reported another strong set of results, once again increasing profit despite a challenging market. Charles will be an integral part of ensuring this trend continues and we are all very excited about working alongside him.”

Restaurant Associates​

Meanwhile, Compass Group has appointed a new managing director for its Restaurant Associates arm.

Andy Harris takes over the role from Nick Potter after spending 16 years within the business, most recently as sales and retention director for the UK and Ireland.

He will now be responsible for growing and leading Restaurant Associates on a national scale.

Ian Sarson, group managing director, Compass Group UK & Ireland, said: “With the success of the Restaurant Associates business in London and in national accounts, we see great potential for continued future growth.

“Andy has played a major role on the Compass leadership team for many years. With his significant operational experience and his success as sales and retention director over the last three years, Andy is the ideal person to grow Restaurant Associates and to continue to provide the superior service for which the brand is recognised.”

Harris’s appointment will see the return of a Restaurant Associates presence on the Compass executive team.