Welcome Break CEO Rod McKie steps down to join restaurant group Sticks'n'Sushi

Welcome Break CEO Rod McKie has announced he will step down next month to take on a new role as CEO of restaurant group Sticks'n'Sushi.

McKie will retain a non-executive director role with the motorway service station operator.

He takes the helm of Sticks'n'Sushi, which has seven UK sites, in July.

McKie said: "I have enjoyed a wonderful 15 years at Welcome Break, but feel now is the right time to accept a new challenge.

"However, I will still be directly involved with Welcome Break as an adviser and non-executive director and look forward to contributing to its continued success.

"During the past 13 years as chief executive I have been proud to lead a management team that together with the strong support of our shareholders, has been responsible for the biggest overhaul of the company since it was founded in 1959.

"In particular, the business has been fully transformed into the first fully branded motorway service operator, with over 14 brand partners. During this time, the business has enjoyed ten years of consecutive top line and bottom line growth."

Welcome Break chairman, Darren Kyte added: "I would like to thank Rod for all his hard work and dedication over the years, which has contributed hugely to the success of Welcome Break over the past 15 years."

Robbie Bell, currently Welcome Break's chief financial officer has been appointed CEO designate with effect from June.

Sticks'n'Sushi to open three more UK restaurants>>

Welcome Break on road to growth following £440m funding package>>

Get The Caterer every week on your smartphone, tablet, or even in good old-fashioned hard copy (or all three!).