Thomas Kelly joins Espresso House as CEO
Additionally, Konrad Meyer has assumed the position of board chairman
Espresso House, the premium café and coffee brand in the Nordics, has announced the appointment of Thomas Kelly as its new group chief executive officer, starting from September 2024.
The news comes after Honest Burgers promoted Kelly from CEO to chair within a year’s time. Kelly will remain chair while taking on his new role as CEO of Espresso House.
Before Honest Burgers, he was global executive director of Retail and Franchising at Costa Coffee. He also spent over 10 years at McDonald’s, six of which were spent in the Scandinavian market.
In 2014, he became CEO of McDonald’s Finland and in 2016, also took on responsibility for McDonald’s Sweden.
The appointment is a major milestone for Espresso House, as it concludes the executive leadership changes made over the past year. Additionally, Konrad Meyer has assumed the position of board chairman.
Kelly said: “The fast-casual food and beverage sector continues to be filled with opportunities for excitement and innovation.
“The characteristics that have made Espresso House a national champion in Sweden and across the Nordics, present a remarkable platform for further growth. I look forward to bringing consumers in all our markets delicious food and drinks, warm and welcoming environments, all underpinned by our dedication to the fika tradition.”
Meyer added: “We are very happy to welcome Thomas to Espresso House and, coincidentally, are reuniting a proven duo of Thomas and Daniel Sandström, our CFO, who worked together for many years at McDonald’s.
“Our strengthened executive leadership team brings extensive Nordic and fast-casual experience. I look forward to partnering with Thomas, the board and the entire Espresso House team in pursuing our growth ambitions, while maintaining our commitment to serving the best coffee and food to our customers every day.”