Boparan Restaurant Group CEO steps down

Satnam Leihal has stepped down from his role as chief executive at Boparan Restaurant Group (BRG) after more than six years.

He joined the group, which operates nine brands, including Slim Chickens and Cinnamon Collection, in 2019, following a two-decade career at Morrisons.

During his time as chief executive, BRG acquired 31 Carluccio’s restaurants out of administration as well as Gourmet Burger Kitchen.

Press materials seen by The Caterer thanked Leihal for having led the business “through a period of significant transformation”.

Leihal’s departure coincided with the promotion of director of operations Richard Pigott to managing director of BRG.

Pigott joined the business in 2017 as operations manager. The following year, he became head of operations, overseeing the launch and expansion of the Slim Chickens franchise in the UK.

For the past two years, he has held the role of director of operations.  

A spokesperson for Boparan Restaurant Group said: “Richard’s appointment reflects his deep knowledge of the business and the key role he has played since BRG was founded. From launching Slim Chickens to leading operations across the group, Richard has consistently demonstrated strong leadership and a clear focus on performance and people.”

Boparan Restaurant Group operates more than 100 sites across the UK and internationally under brands such as Fishworks, Giraffe and Carls’ Jr.