Neil Wickers steps down as chief executive of Carluccio's

Neil Wickers has stepped down as chief executive of the Italian restaurant brand Carluccio's after three years in the role.

He will be replaced by Mark Jones (pictured), currently CEO of Goals Soccer Centres, as he moves on to pursue personal projects,

Jones' early career was spent with Allied Domecq and Whitbread, where he rose to become CEO of Pizza Hut UK.

Following Whitbread, he became chief executive of Yates Group and lead the management buy-out and its subsequent sale, before joining Premium Bars and Restaurants as chairman and CEO.

Before joining Goals Soccer Centres, Jones worked at Mecca and Grosvenor Casinos.

He said: "I am excited to be joining Carluccio's at this important time and look forward to working with the team to continue to develop the brand, ensuring a great experience for our customers."

Wickers took over from former chief executive Simon Kossoff in January 2015. He entered the hospitality industry as form brand manager at Unilever in 1985, progressing to managing director after over 20 years with the company.

Carluccio’s has also announced the appointment of Andrew Campbell as chief financial officer, who will replace interim CFO Stephen Critoph on 15 January. His former roles include finance director of YO! Sushi and Novus Leisure.

Carl Leaver, chairman of Carluccio’s, said: “I am delighted that Mark and Andrew are joining Carluccio’s. They each bring valuable experience and a strong customer focus that will help to build upon Carluccio’s strong reputation for authentic Italian food. I would like to thank Neil for his contribution and wish him well in his future career.”

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