Gaucho announces new leadership appointments

Gaucho and M operator Rare Restaurants says it is ‘continuing to outperform market measures’ with turnover rising above £75m in its latest financial results

Gaucho has announced new leadership changes to strengthen the business and streamline its performance, as recently appointed CEO Baton Berisha implements the next stage of his growth strategy.

Pedro Nunes joins the steakhouse group as operations director for London, bringing over a decade of experience from The Ivy Collection.

Nunes oversaw multiple high-profile openings and international franchise developments.

His leadership will see him help elevate standards across service, culture, and profitability within Gaucho’s 12-strong London estate.

Meanwhile, current operations director Sean Weeraratna becomes regional operations director for Gaucho’s eight further sites outside of the capital.

Zack Charilaou, who has been with the group for 17 years, will now oversee the sales and reservations department in his role as business development director.

The position will leverage his experience and knowledge of the brand, while recognising his success in expanding the business through out-of-restaurant event sales.

Anthony Ekizian will lead Gaucho’s new back of house structure in his role as culinary director, bringing a modernised approach to kitchen operations, purchasing, and execution.

Baton Berisha, Gaucho CEO, commented: “We are evolving Gaucho’s leadership structure to reflect the ambition of the brand.

“These new appointments and promotions will sharpen our focus, empower performance, and support innovation across all areas of the business.

“I’m incredibly proud of the team we’re building, and we look forward to stepping into an exciting new chapter for Gaucho.”

Berisha was appointed CEO in March, following the departure of long-time boss Martin Williams last year.

Williams now leads the Evolv Collection, formerly known as D&D London.

In May this year, Rare Restaurants - Gaucho’s parent company - shuttered its remaining location under the M Restaurants concept to focus on Gaucho.

Rare also closed its Crane Tap pub in Twickenham shortly after, leaving only the Gaucho brand in its portfolio.

A version of this story was originally published by MCA, Restaurant’s sister site. To subscribe to MCA, click here.