STORY: New CEO for PAUL UK

London-based artisan bakery and patisserie PAUL has appointed Mark Hilton as its new CEO.

He was previously CEO at the Sphera Franchise Group, the holding company operating the franchises for KFC Romania, Italy and Moldova, as well as Pizza Hut and Taco Bell in Romania.

While there he successfully listed the business on the Bucharest stock exchange, doubling the number of stores and introducing new brands (Taco Bell) and new markets (Italy).

Prior to that he was COO for Yum!Brands’ franchise business in Europe.

Mark has worked with PAUL previously both in a non-exec role, supporting PAUL International, and as CEO of the group operating the PAUL franchise in Romania, which he grew to 17 locations.

Mark’s focus will be to drive growth of the brand throughout the UK “by enhancing product variety, relevance and value, to support its quality positioning and artisanal French values,” according to the company.

He intends to develop the brand outside London by opening up franchise opportunities, as well as continuing to grow the number of London sites through concepts such as PAUL Express.

He will also oversee new product development with a spotlight on healthier and vegan options, whilst building on PAUL’s commitment to reducing food waste and increasing sustainability.

Mark replaces Jean-Michel Orieux who stepped down as CEO of PAUL UK last year, taking on the role of non-executive director with PAUL International.

Commenting on the appointment, Mark said: “I am committed to taking the business forward with further openings, building on the work of Jean-Michel.  …I am confident that with my talented team we will be able to develop the core proposition to ensure it remains engaging and relevant.”