Backhouse is also a senior independent advisor to Hollywood Bowl, and was a non-executive director of Marston’s for six years.
He replaces Simon Kossoff,co-founder and former CEO of Carluccio's, who stepped down as chairman in August 2019 after four years in the role.
“Over the past few months, I’ve had the chance to speak with many people in the Giggling Squid family and I’m impressed not only by what the brand has achieved to date, but also by its resilience and future potential,” says Backhouse. ”I’m looking forward to bringing my experience to support its continued success.”
Andy Laurillard, founder and CEO of Giggling Squid, says he is ”delighted" with the appointment of Backhouse.
"His knowledge and expertise, particularly in the multi-site leisure sector, is hard to match and we are thrilled he has decided to join us as we move forward from the most challenging period in hospitality," he says.
The appointment completes senior team movement at the company which sees Vikas Agarwal, previously Head of Food, joining the Board as Chief Commercial Officer.
Giggling Squid was founded in 2009 and has 35 restaurants and one delivery only kitchen across the UK.