Collins Foods is a franchisee of KFC and Taco Bell restaurant brands in Australia. Credit: Nils Versemann / Shutterstock.

Collins Foods, a franchisee of KFC and Taco Bell in Australia, has named Xavier Simonet as its new managing director and chief executive officer, effective from 4 November 2024.

Simonet will operate out of the company’s Brisbane head office, bringing with him a wealth of experience in multi-site retail operations.

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Collins Foods chair Robert Kaye said: “Following a comprehensive global search process, the board is delighted to have secured a managing director and CEO of Xavier’s capabilities, experience and respect in the market.

“His track record reflects his capability to successfully grow international brands and businesses while working collaboratively with multiple stakeholders.”

Presently serving as the CEO of Austrade, Simonet has demonstrated his capability in forging partnerships that expand Australian businesses internationally.

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Simonet’s previous roles include his six-year leadership at Kathmandu Holdings as managing director and Group CEO, where he oversaw the growth and diversification of the Kathmandu, Rip Curl, and Oboz brands.

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His experience at Kathmandu Holdings is notable for his management of brand expansion and strategic development.

Before his role at Kathmandu Holdings, Simonet was the CEO of Radley London and served as International Director at Seafolly Group for four years.

Previously, he served in management positions at Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy (LVMH) in Europe, Asia and Australia.

Simonet said: “It is a privilege to be entrusted to lead Collins Foods as its next MD and CEO. The opportunity to grow Collins Foods and its world-class brands, which are synonymous with customer value and great-tasting food, is compelling.

“I am very much looking forward to working with the board and the entire team of more than 20,000 employees across Australia and Europe as we strive to continue to set new standards in QSR excellence.”

In February this year, Collins Foods appointed Kevin Perkins as its interim CEO.