Compass CEO Richard Cousins to step down, Dominic Blakemore to succeed him

FTSE 100 catering group Compass said on Thursday that Richard Cousins will step down from his role as chief executive officer on 31 March 2018.

Cousins, who will retire from the group at the end of next September, will be succeeded by current chief operating officer for Europe, Dominic Blakemore. He will become deputy chief executive on 1 October 2017 and will work with Cousins for the next six months to ensure a smooth transition.

Blakemore will take over as CEO on 1 April 2018.

Chairman Paul Walsh said: "Dominic's appointment is the result of a rigorous succession process. Dominic joined Compass Group in 2012 and has already contributed significantly to the group as CFO for four years and for the past two years as chief operating officer Europe. Dominic has the leadership skills combined with the industry and operational experience to build on the group's strong track record, and as CEO to lead Compass to continued future success."

Meanwhile, Cousins said: "It has been a privilege to work with the many talented people that make up the Compass team. I am grateful to have enjoyed their support in building a world class business that has enormous potential to prosper further. I look forward to working closely with Dominic in the next six months to ensure a smooth handover and I am confident that he will lead the group to even greater success in the future."