Zoë Watts will take the helm at Bennett Hay at the start of April and will be responsible for the independent hospitality business’s bold growth plans and continued operational excellence.
She joined Bennett Hay as business development director in the summer of 2021 and has secured new clients, retained existing business and led on marketing and innovation across the company’s portfolio of workplace catering and reception contracts.
Ms Watts was instrumental in securing the appointment of director of operations Leo Coates and culinary director Candice Webber to the leadership team of owner directors Robin Hay and Anthony Bennett.
The company’s owners will remain directly involved and take ownership of corporate governance, strategic planning and key partnerships, while Ms Watt focuses on asserting it as a workplace partner of choice.
Ms Watts comments: “The past two years have been incredibly energising and inspiring as we’ve innovated and adapted to meet the shift in the workplace and our clients’ needs. Bennett Hay has been a force in championing, challenging and reimaging the norms of 9 to 5 – and we’ve grown a fantastic team across our business to help us develop our new proposition. Robin and Anthony’s ownership, and our financial independence means we can be agile and adventurous, and I’m honoured to be leading their business as we embark on our next chapter.”
Mr Bennett says: “Zoë has been instrumental in driving the business and reinforcing our culture and values. Robin and myself are delighted to be handing over the reins and to seeing her enthusiasm and tenacity take us to the next level. We will continue to be involved in the business by focussing on our specialisms and giving Zoë any support and mentorship she may require.”
