Costa has promoted Clair Preston-Beer from chief operating officer to managing director, MENA & SEAI, MCA understands.
Preston-Beer has been with the Whitbread-owned chain since 2005, including stints as a regional operations director and UK operations director.
She was made chief operating officer last March.
At the same time, MCA understands that Toni Wood has stepped down as the coffee brand’s global brand and digital director to join DFS as its new chief marketing officer.
Wood joined Costa in June 2014 after three years with Jordans Ryvita Company, where she was first head of brand marketing and then head of marketing, innovation and R&D.
Earlier this week, the company unveiled a new concept store aimed at metropolitan customers which could be rolled it out if it proves popular.
The new concept store in Wandsworth serves single origin drip filter coffee, Mediterranean snacks and alcoholic drinks during extended evening opening hours.
The Whitbread-owned company said the aim was to reflect customers’ more discerning tastes, with new food items including avocado on toast, macarons and antipasti sharing plates, plus beers, wine and cider for the late afternoon and evening.
