INTERNATIONAL/UK
Chris Garside, former CEO of Compass Group UK and Ireland, has been named head of sales and business development for Aramark International, starting 17 May. He will be reporting to Carl Mittleman, COO of Aramark International and will take on responsibility for leading growth in 18 countries around the world.
In a far-ranging remit, which includes hospitality, foodservice and facilities management contracts, Aramark provides uniform rental services, mats, towels, mops and restroom supplies to 300,000 businesses.
In this newly created role, Garside will lead the company’s growth agenda with a focus on driving new sales across its international portfolio, supporting strategic and major retention efforts, and developing and executing a global M&A framework.
“Chris will be an incredible addition the Aramark International team, bringing his passion for hospitality and a strong network of relationships, a proven track record, and years of industry experience,” said Mittleman. “As we focus on growth post-pandemic, there is no one better suited to help us open new doors and fortify the relationships we currently enjoy.”
Garside comes to Aramark following a successful career with Compass Group. As a member of the Executive Board of Compass and well-respected industry leader, Chris achieved sustainable year over year growth across Northern Europe through a balanced focus on innovation, strong net new results, and strategic acquisition. During his 11-year tenure with Compass, he held a variety of roles of progressive responsibility in the UK and Europe, leading businesses in Defence, Offshore, Government, and Education.
“Joining Aramark now creates exciting new opportunities for me in an industry I have known and loved for many years,” said Garside. “Carl and his senior team are dedicated to a hospitality mentality, and that passion for service is in my blood. I am eager to get started and add value to Aramark’s International team, as well as supporting the industry to recover and thrive post-pandemic.”
Before joining Compass, Garside held a variety of operational and leadership positions with Kingfisher PLC, a UK-based international home improvement retailer, and with Dixons Stores Group, one of the largest consumer electronics retailers in Europe.
Garside serves as Trustee of Hospitality Action, a London-based charity organisation dedicated to providing vital services and assistance to those who work or have worked in the hospitality industry and who have fallen on hard times.
Aramark International encompasses 18 countries of operation around the globe, including the Aramark operating businesses in Northern Europe (UK, Ireland, and the Global Offshore business in Denmark, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain); Continental Europe (Germany, Spain, Belgium, Czech Republic); Asia (China, Korea, Japan); Latin America (Mexico, Chile, Argentina); and Canada.
