Cairn Group appoints new director of F&B operations

Newcastle-based Cairn Group has announced the appointment of David Ladd as the company’s director of food and beverage operations to oversee its portfolio of standalone restaurants and bars. 

It is reported that Ladd joins from Bar Soba Group where he headed the Pan Asian brand and was responsible for an annual turnover of more than £10m and 200 employees. 

He has also worked for other well-known companies in the hospitality sector including Cameron’s Brewery, Mahiki Group, where he was reportedly involved in the successful launch of Speyside malt Whisky Copper Dog, and Newcastle-based Black Door Group.

Cairn Group successfully operates individually branded bars and restaurants across the UK, which include cocktail bars and restaurants Jalou in Newcastle and York, and Juniper in Edinburgh. This is in addition to 28 hotels.

Ladd said: “I am delighted to be joining Cairn Group and getting to know its diverse portfolio of bars, restaurants and hotels. I was very impressed by the professionalism and passion of the Cairn team. This is a fantastic opportunity, and I am excited to get started.”

Richard Adams, HR director at Cairn Group, added: “David is a fantastic addition to our leadership team and his expertise and knowledge will be invaluable to the business and our people. 

“Bouncing back from Covid has been challenging and it’s good to know that the future operations of our bars and restaurants are in such safe hands.”