Food service giant Compass Group has appointed Ian El-Mokadem as chief executive officer at its UK and Ireland division.

El-Mokadem was managing director of telecommunications company Onetel, which is a subsidiary of Centrica.

He replaces Trevor Briggs who became interim chief executive in January after Gary Green, head of Compass's Americas division, returned home to focus on his primary role.

Sir Roy Gardner, incoming Compass chairman, said: “Ian is one of the most able young businessmen I know. His talents will be invaluable in leading the continuing turnaround and cultural change in the division.”

The revolving door at the division was put into motion after Don Davenport’s - who retired last July – successor Peter Harris was sacked after an investigation into contract procurement irregularities at the UN.

El-Mokadem joins the company on the 8 May, after which Briggs will return to his original role as executive director specialist markets.

Compass faces second law suit >>

Congress has questions over Compass contract >>

Compass admits to serious irregularities over handling of UN contracts >>

Compass adds weight to management team >>

By Chris Druce

Get your copy of Caterer and Hotelkeeper every week - click here to subscribe and save 25%.