John-Hodgson, formerly head chef at Solstice, will oversee the day-to-day running and culinary direction of both restaurants, while Atkinson remains closely involved in their creative direction.
Atkinson says the appointment marks a significant milestone for the business and reflects John-Hodgson’s “outstanding” contribution since joining House of Tides in 2018.
The new role will allow Atkinson to focus more on business development, brand collaborations and wider strategic projects across the group.
The promotion follows John-Hodgson’s success at the 2026 Craft Guild of Chefs Awards, where he won the Restaurant Chef award earlier this month.
“Scott has been an integral part of what we’ve built here since the very beginning, and this promotion is thoroughly deserved. His Craft Guild of Chefs award is a testament to the remarkable level he’s operating at, and I have complete confidence in his ability to lead both kitchens with the same passion, precision, and warmth that define everything we do.
“This new structure lets Scott take more of the day-to-day reins, while I get to put more energy into the exciting opportunities coming our way as a business, but I’ll remain very much part of both kitchens, just with a broader lens. I couldn’t be prouder of what he’s achieved and what I know he’ll go on to do,” Atkinson says.
Originally from Teesside, John-Hodgson studied at Stockton Sixth Form before going on to study sports development at Liverpool John Moores University with ambitions of becoming a teacher.
He switched careers in his mid-twenties, joining Kenny and Abbie Atkinson’s Michelin-starred House of Tides in 2018, where he quickly rose through the ranks to become sous chef.
He joined the opening team at Solstice in 2022 and, within eight months, helped the restaurant secure a Michelin star.
“Taking on this executive chef role is something I’m incredibly proud of and genuinely excited about. House of Tides is where it all started for me; it’s where I found my love for this industry, and Solstice has been a project I’ve given everything to since day one.
“To now have the opportunity to lead across both restaurants is a real privilege. Kenny has given me so much over the years, and I want to honour that by continuing to push both restaurants forward alongside him, for the teams, our guests and the wider North East food scene,” John-Hodgson says.