Top 100: Dominic Blakemore, Compass Group
Overall ranking: 39 (new entry)
Foodservice ranking: 5 (New entry)
Snapshot
What we think
In taking over from Cousins, Blakemore has some pretty big shoes to fill. A City of London big-hitter and company turnaround expert, Cousins joined Compass in 2006 when the caterer was reeling from allegations of bribery in its business supplying the UN.
Under his leadership, annual turnover more than doubled from £10.8b in the year he was appointed to £22.6b in 2017. Company shares saw a seven-fold increase in value, and shareholders have received £9b in dividends and share buybacks. With results like these, it's little wonder that shares fell on the day his impending departure was announced, and once again immediately following his death in a plane crash in Sydney, Australia.
In the five years since joining Compass, Blakemore has held a number of key roles. He is a money man and his ascent through the top ranks has been steady. He may be something of an unknown quantity to the foodservice world, but he is no stranger to brokers and investors.
The chief executive of Compass has considerable power and influence. What happens to Blakemore's future position in the Top 100 will depend on the strength of his performance and industry presence once his feet are firmly under the desk.
Further information
Industry pays tribute to Richard Cousins who 'made us all raise our game' >>
Compass confirms replacement after tragic death of CEO Richard Cousins >>
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