Arc adds two colleagues to its board

Arc Inspirations, the Martin Wolstencroft-led bar operator, has announced two new additions to its board, with the appointment of CFO Ciara Allan and the promotion of Laura Lewis to marketing director.

Allan, who will join the business this September to drive financial growth across its Banyan Bar & Kitchen, BOX and Manahatta brands, has previously operated in privately owned and private equity-backed businesses across a multitude of sectors.

She joins during a transformational period of growth for Arc Inspirations, as the company looks to expand its footprint funded by a £19m investment from BGF. She replaces Tim Knockton, who leaves Arc Inspirations to pursue opportunities outside of the group.

Laura Lewis joins the Arc Inspirations board

In addition, after three years with Arc as head of marketing, Lewis has been promoted to the board as marketing director.

The two new appointees will join Wolstencroft, managing director Anni Opong and property director Nik Lowery on the group’s main board.

"We’re thrilled to be adding two fantastic leaders to our board," says Wolstencroft. "Ciara has vast experience as a CFO and as a leader who has defined and driven the financial strategy of highly successful businesses, including working with BGF, and I have no doubt she will be a great asset to Arc during what is a very exciting period of growth for the business."

Arc Inspirations operates 19 bars across the Midlands and the north of England. The company is planning to open at least four more sites over the next 12 months, including BOX in Nottingham and Manahatta in Newcastle. It is aiming to open 50 sites by 2030.

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