Whitbread boss to take over at Eldridge Pope

Pub operator Eldridge Pope has brought in a former Whitbread restaurants boss to replace chief executive Peter Phillipson.

Michael Johnson, 45, has worked in several senior positions at Whitbread, including managing director of its Pelican Group business. He has been involved in the development of the Café Rouge bars and the Bella Pasta and Mamma Amalfi restaurant brands.

In 1995, he led Whitbread's acquisition of the Costa Coffee chain, of which he became chief executive. He was also chief executive of its TGI Friday's restaurants and Keg Restaurants Australia and managing director of Pizza Hut France.

Mr Phillipson is leaving Eldridge Pope after two-and-a-half years as chief executive to become chief executive of leisure group Madame Tussauds.

He has overseen a major restructuring of the former brewer to focus on larger-volume pubs and the Toad café-bar chain.

Mr Johnson, who will take over in September, said: "Against the background of recent activity and uncertainty in the pub retailing sector, Eldridge Pope has shown determination and focus. The company itself has also undergone many significant changes, and it now has a strengthened and balanced core business."

Chairman Christopher Pope said: "Michael Johnson's extensive experience in food and drink retailing and his proven track record within the industry will enable us to progress our long-term strategy of growing the business and increasing profitability."