Baton Berisha steps down from the Wolseley Hospitality Group

Baton Berisha has stepped down as chief executive of the Wolseley Hospitality Group after two years in the role.

In a post on LinkedIn, he said “after much reflection” he had decided to leave for a “new adventure”.

The group has yet to confirm Berisha’s replacement but he said he would “remain on board to settle in my successor when they join”.

It comes just months after the Wolseley Hospitality Group was reported to have called in restructuring advisers to help it navigate cashflow issues.

Berisha previously spent seven years at the Ivy Collection before leaving to join D&D London in 2022.

However, he was poached by the Wolseley Hospitality Group after just three months.

He joined the business, previously Corbin & King, shortly after Minor International wrested control of the company from its founder Jeremy King.

Since Berisha’s appointment the Wolseley Hospitality Group has opened seafood restaurant Manzi’s in Soho and the Wolseley City in the former House of Fraser building in the City of London.

Berisha said: “Over the past two years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside some of the most talented and passionate individuals in our industry — people who are truly the heart and soul of this remarkable brand. 

“When I joined, my goal was to collaborate with this talented team to build a resilient business and shine a light on those who make our sector so special. 

“Having grown up in hospitality, I understand just how vital this industry and its people are. The Wolseley Hospitality Group is a testament to that passion, standing as a symbol of uniqueness and excellence. 

“I will always cherish these experiences, but the time has come for me to embark on a new adventure.”

The Wolseley Hospitality Group’s portfolio of London restaurants includes Brasserie Zedel, Colbert, Soutine, Fischer’s and Bellanger.

Its group executive chef David Stevens left the business earlier this year to work with his former boss Jeremy King on the relaunch of Simpson’s in the Strand in London.

Minor International said in a statement that Berisha had "decided to explore opportunities outside of Minor".
 
"We would like to thank Baton for his leadership and his support during the transition period. We wish him the best in his future endeavours," the statement added.