PizzaExpress makes senior team appointments

PizzaExpress has announced the appointment of Jo Bennett as chief business officer and Shadi Halliwell as chief customer cfficer.

The pair will report to PizzaExpress CEO David Campbell, and will join managing director Zoe Bowley and people director Kate Daines on the PizzaExpress executive committee.

Bennett joins from Hilding Anders Group – the international sleep group with around 1,200 stores and sales in over 60 countries – where she was group chief financial officer (CFO). Before this, she was a director of KKR Capstone, CFO of retailer Jacques Vert Group and worked in the operations group of TPG Capital.

Halliwell was most recently chief marketing officer of Three UK, and from 2014-2017 was group marketing and creative director of Harvey Nichols. Halliwell also played a leading role in the marketing success of O2 for 15 years, most recently as head of brand and marketing communications.

“I am thrilled that Jo and Shadi are joining the team," comments Campbell. "Their respective track records speak for themselves, and I am sure, alongside the already strong team at PizzaExpress, they will ensure that 2021 ends up as a brilliant year for our business around the world.

“Following the significant recapitalisation of the company two months ago, and substantial further funds being committed, we are in an increasingly strong position to grow once Covid restrictions are eased.”

“As a long time fan of PizzaExpress in restaurants and supermarkets, and with a strong interest and background in international businesses, I am excited to be joining after the company’s successful recapitalisation," says Bennett. "With a strong balance sheet, an experienced team and an appetite to understand customers and innovate, PizzaExpress is very well positioned as markets return to growth.” 

“With such an iconic brand that uniquely spans casual dining, takeaway, digital delivery and retail, this is an exciting time to be joining PizzaExpress," adds Halliwell. £"I’m delighted to be joining the team to build on the existing strengths and develop new opportunities as customers’ needs evolve in their homes and as millions of people pour back out into our neighbourhoods, high streets and city centres.”