Stokes will oversee strategic acquisitions and expansion plans across the group’s portfolio of brands, which includes Las Iguanas, Bella Italia and Café Rouge.
“We’re pleased that Paul has decided to join us at Big Table Group," says Matt Ainger, property director at Big Table Group.
"With his tremendous knowledge and understanding of the sector, Paul will be a fantastic addition to team as we look to grow our business.”
Stokes was previously head of franchise development at KFC UKI, where he was responsible for brand development, site acquisition and expansions for over 13 years.
Prior to his role at KFC, he 2as director of client retail strategy at real estate company CBRE.
“The Big Table Group is a fantastic business with big growth plans, and I look forward to taking on this new role and helping to develop its much-loved brands, particularly during this exciting time ahead as restrictions continue to ease,” he says.
Big Table Group operates more than 150 restaurants across the UK and Ireland.
The group was formed in July 2020 to acquire and operate the Las Iguanas, Café Rouge and Bella Italia brands that were previously managed by Casual Dining Group, in concert with the existing management team.