Michael Pearson appointed Benito's Hat MD

Former operations director of dim sum chain Ping Pong, Michael Pearson, has been appointed managing director of Benito's Hat Restaurant Group.

From 1 November, Pearson will take over from founder and chief executive Ben Fordham at the helm of the burrito brand. After nine years with the company, Fordham is moving to the US with his family to "pursue some exciting opportunities".

Benito's Hat recently announced its first site outside of London, opening in Oxford on 24 October, and highest profit for several years.

Fordham and Pearson will work together throughout November and December, before Michael takes the reins at the beginning of 2018. Fordham will remain involved at board level as well as providing support to Pearson and his team.

Pearson will oversee the expansion of the group, with further high street and smaller format venues planned for 2018. Benito's Hat currently operates restaurants in Covent Garden, Oxford Circus, Goodge Street, Farringdon, King's Cross, Bromley and, as of 24 October, Oxford Westgate.

Benito's Hat to open first venture outside of London >>

Benito's Hat team builds UK's biggest burrito >>

Videos from The Caterer archives

Are you looking for a new role? See all the current hospitality vacancies available with The Caterer Jobs