Saxton will shape DIAFA’s strategy as it seeks to identify, support and scale high-potential hospitality and lifestyle brands worldwide
Saxton left his role as director of restaurant at Harrods earlier this year having opened more than 36 restaurants for the luxary retail brand worldwide.
At Harrods Knightsbridge flagship, Saxton led a team of 900, launching concepts with top chefs including Gordon Ramsay, Jason Atherton, Tom Kerridge and Masayoshi Takayama.
He has previously held senior roles at Atlantis Dubai and Lebua Bangkok, and has overseen the opening of more than 70 restaurants and bars across four continents.
Commenting on his new role, Saxton said: “The opportunity to lead DIAFA from day one is both rare and exciting. I was drawn to the ambition and long-term vision shared by our shareholders … I believe in thinking boldly, executing with discipline, and creating lasting value.”
Structured as a permanent capital vehicle, DIAFA intends to combine long-term investment with operational expertise to grow sustainable, global F&B businesses.
The company says it has several high-profile acquisitions underway, to be announced soon, and aims to become the world’s largest luxury F&B group.