Gusto Italian, the premium casual dining restaurant group, has announced the appointment of a new chief operating officer (COO) to drive expansion and growth as the business seeks to open in more locations across the UK.
The business, which is led by CEO Matt Snell, has appointed Scott Grimbleby to the role. He joins from Living Ventures and replaces Tim Selby, who is leaving to pursue opportunities outside of the group.
Snell said, “Scott is a brilliant operator with fantastic experience of operating in the premium hospitality space. He brings a track record of delivering sales growth at established restaurant businesses as well as successfully launching and building new businesses, and we are delighted to welcome him to the Gusto Italian family.
“At the same time, we would like to sincerely thank Tim for his hard work and dedication to Gusto Italian. We wish him well in the new ventures that lie ahead.”
Scott added, “I’ve admired Gusto Italian for some time, and Matt and the team have done a great job creating a brand which really stands out in a crowded Italian casual dining sector. I’m thrilled to be joining a thriving business which is outperforming the market, growing its estate and delivering outstanding service, and can’t wait to get stuck in to this exciting new role.”
Scott has held various managing director roles within the Living Ventures business over the past six years, most recently serving as MD for Blackhouse Restaurants, prior to which he was operations direction at La Tasca.
His appointment comes as the Palatine Private Equity-backed business seeks to expand its footprint of 13 restaurants, which are located in the North and Midlands.
Founded in Cheshire in 2005, Gusto Italian has almost 600 employees, known as family members, and its most recent site opened in Nottingham in late 2021. The Nottingham restaurant is the brand’s hero site, and the template for all future openings and refurbishments, featuring three design icons: The Pizza Experience at the Chef’s Table, a Show Kitchen, and Olive Trees, which, along with a refreshed colour palate, reflect the Amalfi Coast and add a touch of sparkle and authenticity to the company’s restaurants.