Famously Proper, the group that owns leading casual dining restaurant chain Byron Burgers & trendy chicken brand, Mother Clucker, has announced the appointment of Nicolas Barnoin as COO. Nicolas will be leading operations, menu and instore experience and development across both brands and all platforms, working closely with Gavin Cox, CEO, on the strategic growth of the business.

Nicolas, who joined the business on Friday, brings a wealth of experience in casual dining after 20 years with Itsu. Working alongside Julian Metcalfe from the very beginning, he was instrumental in growing the brand to the successful concept it is today. He progressed through various roles within the company, including People Director and Ops Director, to his most recent as Development Director. Amongst his many achievements are the digitisation of Itsu across multiple platforms, the launch of Itsu’s industry-leading delivery proposition and creation of their iconic contemporary store design.

Sandeep Vyas of Calveton & Chairman of Famously Proper says: “I am delighted to welcome Nicolas onboard, as we look forward to an exciting phase of development and expansion across the company. Nicolas is an astute operator and has hands-on experience of building a significant high street brand. His knowledge and energy will be much appreciated by the Famously Proper family.”