Mon 1st Jul 2019 - Pret chief executive Clive Schlee to retire Pret A Manger chief executive Clive Schlee to retire: Pret A Manger chief executive Clive Schlee is to retire at the end of September after more than 16 years in the role. Schlee will hand the reins to chief operating officer Pano Christou. The announcement comes on the eve of Pret completing its acquisition of fresh food to go retailer EAT. Schlee will remain on Pret’s board as a non-executive director, ensuring a smooth transition to Christou. Since becoming chief executive in 2003, Schlee has grown Pret’s sales tenfold, helping it to become a billion-pound business with more than 550 shops across nine markets. Schlee said: “There is never an easy time to stop being chief executive of a wonderful company but with the completion of our EAT deal tomorrow (Tuesday, 2 July) and the roll-out of the Pret allergy plan, now is a good time for a new chief executive to take Pret on the next stage of its journey. I’m really pleased Pano is taking over. He knows our shops through and through and will keep Pret true to the values that have underpinned its success.” Christou started as an assistant manager in the company’s Carnaby Street store 19 years ago, working his way up to become managing director of Pret UK in 2014 and chief operating officer at the start of this year. Christou said: “I am honoured to follow Clive as chief executive. Pret has big plans for the next few years – integrating EAT, developing Veggie Pret, delivering our digital transformation, and leading the way in supporting customers with allergies. I want to thank Clive for his leadership over the past 16 years and we look forward to building on his legacy.” Pret chairman Olivier Goudet added: “Since 2003 Clive has become the beating heart of Pret, transforming it into a much-loved, leading international brand. While I am sad to see Clive leave as chief executive, I am thrilled he has agreed to become a non-executive board director, where he will continue to play a key role in stewarding Pret’s people, culture and passion, which are all so integral to its success.” Pret was acquired by investment company JAB Holdings last year for £1.5bn. Propel insights editor Mark Wingett will look at Schlee’s legacy and what’s next for Pret in his latest Premium Opinion article, which will be sent out tomorrow (Tuesday, 2 July)