Fri 29th Aug 2014 - Las Iguanas names new managing director Las Iguanas names new managing director: Las Iguanas has confirmed the appointment of Mos Shamel as managing director of the 35 strong Latin American group. Current chief executive and founder Eren Ali will take the role of executive chairman with Ian Neill moving to non-executive director from 1 October. Shamel joined Las Iguanas as operations director in 2004 and has been instrumental in the growth of the business from six branches to a national operation with a pipeline in place to exceed 40 branches this year. A company spokesman said: “With 24 years in the industry, Mos’s experience has helped him to become an exceptional operator with a passion for his team, securing Investors in People Gold, the IIP Award for Reward & Recognition 2014 and a place on the Sunday Times 100 Best Companies during his tenure.” Ian Neill said: “I’m delighted that Mos has agreed to take the reins and lead the next stage of expansion for the company. I know that he will continue to drive the business forward vigorously whilst maintaining the brilliant culture that already exists at Las Iguanas. I look forward to working with Eren in his new role as Executive Chairman.” Eren Ali added: “This is a very well earned promotion for Mos. He has worked carefully and diligently over the last ten years to help build Las Iguanas and the Las Iguanas team into what is widely accepted to be one of the best restaurants businesses in the UK. As I move in to the role of Executive Chairman I would like to thank Ian for his support and guidance.”