Compass Group UK & Ireland has appointed Michael Lambourne as CEO of Compass One, taking responsibility for the company’s public-sector catering and facilities management operations across the UK and Ireland.
Lambourne will oversee a business employing approximately 25,000 colleagues, delivering services across healthcare, education, defence, marine and aerospace, energy, government and infrastructure.
Compass One incorporates several of the group’s established public-sector businesses, including ESS, Medirest, Chartwells Schools and the Cuisine Centre, alongside its facilities management operations.
The appointment brings Lambourne to the UK from Compass Group Australia, where he previously served as Executive Director for ESS, Chartwells, Medirest and Morrison Living.
He has worked for Compass Group for nine years, holding leadership responsibilities across several businesses, including Australian Defence, Restaurant Associates, Eurest and Rapport.
Before joining Compass, Lambourne held senior finance and strategy positions across the mining and resources, manufacturing and distribution sectors.
His experience encompasses operational leadership, business strategy and the management of services delivered within complex working environments.
In his new position, Lambourne will join the Compass Group UK & Ireland Executive Team, reporting directly to Charlie Brown, Interim CEO of Compass Group UK & Ireland.
Charlie Brown commented:
“Michael brings fresh thinking, innovation and a proven track record of delivering across the public sector. Our public sector business is industry leading and with Michael’s support we will continue focus on delivering commercial value for our customers, while doing the right thing for people and planet, delivering jobs, opportunities and skills for our people.”
The appointment comes as Compass Group continues to develop its public-sector operations, focusing on service delivery, operational efficiency and investment in its workforce.
Michael Lambourne added:
“I am really looking forward to getting started. It’s been great to meet the team in recent weeks and learning more about the business and our clients. One thing that is consistent across borders is that it’s always a huge privilege to work in the public sector. Our teams work in complex environments, supporting diverse customer requirements, at key moments in people’s lives.
“I am hugely proud to be leading the teams that provide such essential services, 24/7, supporting many parts of the country’s critical infrastructure.”
Lambourne’s appointment strengthens the leadership of Compass Group’s UK and Ireland public-sector operations, bringing international experience to a business supporting essential services across multiple sectors.