Vanessa Hall to step down as CEO of YO! Sushi

YO! Sushi announced that Vanessa Hall will step down as Chief Executive, following the acquisition of the company by Mayfair Equity Partners.

Robin Rowland, the company’s former Chief Executive and current Executive Chairman, will assume his former role of Chief Executive following her departure.

During her two years with YO! Sushi as COO & CEO Vanessa has overseen the opening of 20 restaurants, 13 in the UK, 4 in the US, and 4 international franchised restaurants. Vanessa has focused on continuous expansion and innovation, positioning YO! Sushi as a lifestyle brand through design innovation, menu development and creative marketing campaigns.

Robin Rowland, Executive Chairman, said: “We completely understand and respect Vanessa’s desire to explore new opportunities outside of YO! Sushi. Having been with the company since September 2013, Vanessa has made an invaluable contribution to the building of the brand both in the UK and abroad. We thank her for her commitment and wish Vanessa all the best in the future.”

Vanessa Hall, Chief Executive, said: “With the new owners in place, this is a good time to explore other opportunities in the fast-growing restaurant and dining sector. I have greatly enjoyed my time at the helm of YO! Sushi working with an amazing team of people, helping to establish YO! Sushi as one of the UK’s leading fast casual dining options. I look forward to seeing its growth over the next few years, both in the UK and abroad.”