Mecca Bingo has a new boss

Rank plc subsidiary Mecca Bingo has a new boss. The UK online and land gambling group announced early this week that it has appointed Mark Jones (48) as the new md of Mecca Bingo, replacing Simon Wykes who left the company last month.

Jones has previously held a number of senior management posts in the leisure industry, including Chief Executive of Pizza Hut UK (while at Whitbread plc), Chief Executive of Yates Group plc and most recently as Executive Chairman of Premium Bars and Restaurants plc.

Mecca Bingo runs 103 clubs and employs 3 000 people. Jones left Premium Bars and Restaurants in October 2008 after three years running the company.

"Mecca Bingo has faced a number of challenges in recent years but, having stabilised performance we are now seeking to move forward, broadening our customer reach through product and service innovation," said Ian Burke, CEO of Rank Group. "Mark's extensive experience in the leisure retail sector will be invaluable to us as he leads Mecca Bingo into this new phase in its development."

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