Former Aramark UK chief executive Bill Toner has reportedly signed a deal to join contract caterer Host Management.
Following his resignation as head of the US-owned catering giant in February, Toner is understood to be taking up the post of commercial director at Host.
Toner is currently on gardening leave from Aramark but it is believed he will start his new job next May.
Host managing director Jerry Brand denied that a deal was in place. "If Bill was interested in coming to Host, we'd be delighted," he said. "He's a big name and has got a great track record in the industry."
Toner also flatly denied that any deal had been struck.
The reported appointment has raised eyebrows in the industry. Food service consultant Chris Stern said: "If true, it seems like an unusual move. With his stature and earning requirements I would expect him to go somewhere more established. It will be tremendously interesting to see how the relationship works."
On Monday, Host appointed Roy Miller as director for Scotland and the North of England. Miller previously worked alongside Toner at Aramark as managing director for Scotland.