Tortilla names Duncan Garrood as new chair

Tortilla Mexican Grill has appointed chief executive of Empiric Student Properties Duncan Garrood as its new chair, with the role due to take effect on 5 December 2025.

Garrood will replace outgoing chair Emma Woods, who is stepping down after four years. The change follows an agreed succession process.

Garrood is currently chief executive of Empiric Student Properties and formerly led Punch Taverns, Bill’s Restaurants and Ten Entertainment Group. 

He has also held board roles including chair of Small Beer Brewco and senior independent director at Brighton Pier Group.

According to Tortilla, Garrood’s experience with global franchise operators such as Alshaya, BAA and Middle East franchisee Eathos would help guide its next stage of growth.

Chief executive Andy Naylor added that Garrood’s background in international hospitality and franchising would support the group’s plans to expand in the UK and overseas.

A further update will follow the formal handover. The appointment remains subject to routine regulatory due-diligence checks by the company’s nominated adviser, after which the group will release another announcement.

Garrood said: “It is a great honour to be invited to chair Tortilla, a brand I have admired for a long time and had the pleasure of working with, and to help the team steer through the next chapter of growth. I’d like to thank Emma hugely for steering the company from its IPO and I look forward to working with the Tortilla team and our investors.”

Naylor added: “We are delighted to welcome Duncan to the board. His deep understanding of international hospitality and franchising will be a tremendous asset as we continue to deliver on our growth ambitions both in the UK and overseas. I would also like to thank Emma for her support and stewardship over the past four years.”