Ward, most recently CFO at Village Hotels, will join the business on 11 May. He brings experience across hospitality, retail and leisure, including previous roles at Greene King and Hawthorn, as well as senior positions at Co-op.
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Sharpened strategy
He succeeds Steve Dando, who will move into a newly created role as chief financial strategist, focused on strengthening Punch’s long-term financial planning.
Punch chief executive Andy Spencer said the changes would allow the business to retain experience while sharpening its strategic focus.
“Steve’s transition to the role of chief financial strategist will ensure we retain his invaluable experience and counsel, whilst sharpening our long-term financial focus,” he said.
‘Delighted’
“I’m also delighted that Matt is joining us as CFO. His knowledge, strategic capability and sector understanding will be invaluable as we continue to invest in our pubs, develop our operating models and strive toward becoming the UK’s five-star pub company.”
Ward added: “Punch is a business I have admired for many years, with a strong portfolio, a great culture and a market-leading position. I look forward to working with the team to support the next phase of growth and investment.”
The changes come as Punch continues to expand its estate through targeted acquisitions, including its recent deal to acquire eight pubs from RedCat Hospitality.
The group has also added a number of sites over the past year as part of its strategy to grow through both acquisitions and organic investment.
Punch reported EBITDA growth in its latest results, driven by conversions and acquisitions across its estate.
Separately, commercial projects director Ed Bashforth will leave the business in June after nearly two decades with the company.
Spencer said: “Ed has made a significant and positive contribution since joining Punch in 2007, and we thank him sincerely for everything he has delivered.”
