Prezzo CFO Wayne Arthur leaves casual dining firm for aparthotel group Staycity

Aparthotel operator Staycity Group has appointed Wayne Arthur, formerly of Prezzo, as the firm's new chief financial officer.

Arthur will take the reins in mid-January, bringing experience from a turbulent two years at the casual dining chain, where he held the same role.

Prezzo sought a company voluntary agreement (CVA) in March this year, which saw the closure of 94 sites and the stepping down of CEO Jon Hendry-Pickup.

It is currently unclear who will take over from Arthur, although an interim figure is expected to step in while a permanent replacement is found.

At Staycity Group he is set to replace Colm Whooley who has been with the company for nine of its 14-year existence, and is reported to be stepping down to pursue personal interests.

Staycity CEO and co-founder Tom Walsh said: "Colm has been an integral and respected member of the board and the management team for nine years and together we have grown the company significantly in this time.

"I would like to sincerely acknowledge his contribution and unflinching support and thank him for the commitment and expertise he has brought to Staycity during what has been a period of rapid growth. He will be much missed by myself and the team."

He added: "Wayne brings a wealth of experience gained more than 20 years in financial roles in the hospitality sector, including 10 years at Premier Inn where he was part of the growth story from 10,000 to 65,000 rooms.

"His broad commercial and financial expertise will be a huge asset in supporting Staycity deliver further growth plans and I look forward to welcoming him to the team."

Prezzo recorded pre-tax loss of £65.7m in year leading to CVA >>

Staycity announces six new aparthotels >>

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