Compass Group's Richard Cousins has decided to step down from his role as Group Chief Executive Officer on 31 March 2018 and to retire from the Group on 30 September 2018.
He will be succeeded by Dominic Blakemore, currently Chief Operating Officer Europe. Blakemore will become Deputy Chief Executive Officer on 1 October 2017 and will work closely with Richard during the next six months to ensure a smooth transition and will take over as Group Chief Executive Officer on 1 April 2018.
Paul Walsh, Compass Group's Chairman, said, 'It has been a pleasure to work with Richard and on behalf of the Board I want to thank him for his extraordinary contribution to the Group. In the past 11 years Richard has transformed Compass into an industry leading organisation that delivers excellent food services to our clients, attracts and develops great people and generates significant returns for our shareholders.
'Dominic's appointment is the result of a rigorous succession process. Dominic joined Compass Group in 2012 and has already contributed significantly to the Group as CFO for 4 years and for the past 2 years as Chief Operating Officer Europe. Dominic has the leadership skills combined with the industry and operational experience to build on the Group's strong track record, and as CEO to lead Compass to continued future success.'
Cousins said, 'It has been a privilege to work with the many talented people that make up the Compass team. I am grateful to have enjoyed their support in building a world class business that has enormous potential to prosper further. I look forward to working closely with Dominic in the next six months to ensure a smooth handover and I am confident that he will lead the Group to even greater success in the future.'
Blakemore said, 'I am honoured and delighted to be appointed as Compass' next CEO. I am fortunate to be supported by a very strong senior management team and together we will continue to build on the success achieved under Richard's leadership.'
