Various Eateries has appointed Sharon Badelek as chief financial officer, with effect from 1 April 2023.

Set to join the board of the Coppa Club operator, she has had a career spanning more than 30 years, with financial leadership positions at several high-profile leisure and hospitality businesses.

Most recently she was CFO of RedCat Pub Company, an investment vehicle established in January 2021 to acquire freehold pubs. At RedCat, Badelek was instrumental in acquiring 110 pubs over a 12-month period.

Earlier in her career, she was UK finance director and later group finance director at Vue Entertainment. As part of the original executive team, she played a leading role in several major acquisitions, and after nine years was influential in selling the business for £950m.

She has also fulfilled the roles of CFO of Inspired Villages Group, a retirement village developer and operator; CFO and later CEO of Novus Leisure, a London pub and nightclub operator.

ACCA qualified Badelek will replace James Darwent, who has acted as CFO on an interim basis since 11 November 2022.

Andy Bassadone, executive chairman of Various Eateries, said: “Sharon has an impressive track record in scaling customer-centric businesses in our industry and I have no doubt the knowledge and experience she has built over several decades of good and bad markets will be of great benefit to Various Eateries as we pursue our growth ambitions. Sharon was the outstanding candidate for the role, and I am delighted to welcome her to the team.

“At the same time, I would like to thank James Darwent for the important role he has played at the company over the past few months. He slotted in seamlessly at a crucial time for the business and, on behalf of the board and everyone at Various Eateries, I wish him all the best.”

Sharon Badelek, incoming CFO, said: “With strong brands that resonate with the modern consumer, a highly experienced senior team and a clear strategy for expansion, Various Eateries has an exciting opportunity to grow into a leading name in UK hospitality. I look forward to working closely with Andy, Hugh and Yishay to help the Company fulfil its potential and create value for all stakeholders.”