Bistrot Pierre co-founders take a step back

Robert Beacham and John Whitehead, the co-founders of Bistrot Pierre, the Livingbridge-backed French restaurant group, are to take step back from the business and take on non-executive roles, MCA understands.

Beacham is to step down from his current role as property director and will take on a non-executive director role. Whitehead, the group’s former chief executive stepped down in May of this year but remains active in the business also as a non-executive director.

At the same time, the company, which will open its 24th site later this month in Coventry, has appointed Jonathan Havenhand, currently head of property at Coffee #1 and formerly acquisitions director at Casual Dining Group, will join Bistrot Pierre as property director, effective 1 November.

Nick White, chief executive of Bistrot Pierre, said: “John Stepped down as CEO earlier this year but is still very active in the business and adds a huge amount of value in a part-time capacity. Rob felt it was now time for him to do the same. For the business, this is a terrific outcome, we get all of Rob’s considerable experience and flair in site finding and restaurant design, while he gets more time to dedicate to the things he loves.”

Beacham said: “What I really love about my job is finding great buildings and turning them into iconic restaurants. This move lets me continue to do just that but in a part-time capacity. I know Jonathan and I think he is an ideal fit for Bistrot Pierre and I am very much looking forward to working together.”