Searcys appoints new MD as Chris Maddison departs

Caterer Searcys has appointed Matt Thomas, formerly managing director of WSH Restaurants, as its new MD.

 

Thomas replaces Chris Maddison who has held the role since April 2014 having previously worked as sales and marketing director, and led the integration of the company with WSH, which acquired it in July 2014 for £25-30m.

 

Maddison is understood to be assessing his options before taking the next move in his career.

 

Alastair Storey, CEO of the WSH Group said: "I would personally like to thank Chris for his leadership over the last two years. Searcys is a remarkable brand with an exciting future. In Matt we have appointed an individual who will continue its growth and look to deliver excellence for its guests and partners."

 

Thomas, who has held a number of positions within WSH, said: "This brand remains both timeless and elegant. I am excited by the future of Searcys and we will remain fully focussed on delivering wonderful food and great service, in iconic surroundings. We will also stay true to the values with which have long been held important, in turn caring for our teams and guests. It is these things and more that will allow us to realise our full potential in the years ahead."

 

In the last three months Searcys has extended agreements with a number of its long-term partners including Allen & Overy, Vintners' Hall, 10-11 Carlton House Terrace and the Royal College of General Practitioners.

 

That follows an investment programme in venues, systems and people since WSH's acquisition of the business.

 

Searcys, was founded in 1847 by the Duke of Northumberland's pastry chef with the plan to provide an outsourced catering service for large, private houses in London and the Home Counties that lacked full-time domestic staff.

 

Over the next 120 years, Searcys was awarded a royal warrant and became the contract caterer of choice not just to royalty, but also to many of London's stately homes.

 

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