Mark Chambers, current CFO of The Restaurant Group (TRG), which owns Wagamama, will take on the role of CEO of Wagamama UK with effect from 2 June.
He will also continue in his role as CFO of TRG.
Andy Hornby, CEO of TRG, praised Heier for playing an instrumental role in leading the business through the numerous sector challenges over the last four years including the last stages of Covid and the cost-of-living crisis.
“It is a testament to Thomas’s leadership that Wagamama has kept so much of what makes Wagamama so special and he will be leaving with all our thanks,” Hornby said.
Heier, who originally joined Wagamama as people director in 2017 before taking over as CEO in 2021, is moving on to ‘pursue other opportunities’ and will be supporting the business through the transition until the end of June.
“It has been the most incredible journey and an absolute privilege to lead the Wagamama team,” he said.
“I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together, and of the talented group of people I’ve had the opportunity to work with.
“Whilst I’m extremely excited about what comes next, I leave knowing the business is in a strong position for the future, and I look forward to watching the next phase of growth and innovation.
“I’ll always be cheering the team on from the sidelines.”
Wagamama UK’s change at the top comes amid a wider shake-up of brand’s senior team with Hornby taking on responsibility for its overseas operations.
Additionally, Stephen Judge will take on the role of CEO for the Wagamama US business, reporting to Hornby.
Judge originally grew up in the UK and holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree (Honors) in Hotel & Catering Management from Nottingham Trent University.
He became a professional chef in 1986 before moving to the US and embarking on a highly successful career in the hospitality sector.
He joins Wagamama US from Gibsons Restaurant Group, where he is currently serving as COO.
“Stephen’s track record makes him the perfect candidate to grow and develop the Wagamama brand in the US market,” Hornby added.
“Throughout his career he has developed unique dining concepts with a clear focus on service standards, culinary excellence and execution.”
Wagamama operates from over 160 restaurants in the UK as well as 50 sites across continental Europe and the Middle East and seven locations in the US.