Nick Clarke has stepped down as property director of Bistrot Pierre, the Livingbridge-backed French restaurant group, MCA understands.

Clarke joined the 22-strong Bistrot Pierre last May after five years as head of property at the Casual Dining Group-owned Las Iguanas.

MCA understands that Clarke’s departure is amicable and comes as the company, in line with the rest of the sector, pulls back on the number of openings it expects to achieve over the coming 18 months.

It is thought that co-founder Rob Beecham will again undertake the property finding function for the business.

The group recently added letting rooms to its restaurant in Royal William Yard, Plymouth, whilst a new bistrot will open in Coventry this autumn in Cathedral Lanes shopping centre.