The Restaurant Group CEO Andy McCue announces his departure

The Restaurant Group's chief executive Andy McCue has announced that he will be leaving the company due to "extenuating personal circumstances".

McCue joined the Restaurant Group from Paddy Power in September 2016 and recently oversaw its £559m acquisition of Wagamama.

The group, which includes the Frankie & Benny's, Chiquito, Coast to Coast and Garfunkel's brands, has said a search for McCue's replacement will commence immediately, with the CEO expected to remain in place until an appointment is made.

He said: "In recent years, we have achieved much in a challenging market. I'm confident the Restaurant Group is well-positioned with the scale, talent and levers to drive profitable growth. While I recognise that this decision is untimely, it is the right one for me and my family. We have a strong team in the business and a clear plan which we are focused on delivering."

Debbie Hewitt, chairman of the Restaurant Group, added: "Andy has brought a strong vision, developed a first-class team and laid the foundation of the company's transformation. While we are clearly disappointed that he will not be able to provide the long-term leadership for the business, we understand and respect the decision he has made purely on personal grounds."

Last year, McCue was listed in The Caterer's Top 100: the most powerful people in hospitality list, in 17^th position.

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