The RA Group is a collection of specialist food and guest services companies bound together by the shared purpose of delivering customer experiences. It includes Restaurant Associates, Rapport, RA Venues and commercial restaurant partnership City Social by Jason Atherton.
Thomas joins Compass from WSH, where he held senior roles for more than a decade. Previously he was managing director of independent food service provider BaxterStorey and most recently he was managing director of Searcys.
He commented: “I am delighted to be joining the Compass Group UK and Ireland leadership team, at the helm of the RA Group. Their collective enthusiasm for what they do and their desire to think differently is nothing short of inspirational.
“I admire what the RA Group stands for, its strong heritage and relentless pursuit of excellence. I look forward to meeting the teams, clients and customers, with a view to influencing the future direction and growth of RA Group brands.”
Thomas is taking over from Alice Woodwark, who is moving on from Compass after several years in senior strategic and management roles.
Robin Mills, managing director of Compass Group UK & Ireland, added: “We are thrilled to welcome Matt and are excited about what lies ahead. We look forward to Matt’s leadership and creativity in building RA Group for the future, and his contribution to the future path for Compass Group UK&I.
“I would like to thank Alice Woodwark for her exceptional stewardship of the RA Group and the legacy she leaves of a hugely respected and innovative brand that has become a leader in community social enterprise, sustainability and contemporary food.
“Alice has also led with compassion through this challenging year, spearheading innovation that lays the foundation for strong future growth.”