Hodgson has been ceo of Pizza Express since 2013, during which time he led the sale and separation of the business and creation of a new growth strategy.
During his 10-year career at Asda he was one of the key architects of the retailer’s ‘Every Day Low Pricing’ strategy.
He left Asda to join Waitrose in 2006 as commercial director. Waitrose experienced growth in sales, market share and margins during his tenure.
He was also responsible for the launch of the ‘Essential Waitrose’ strategy and negotiated several high profile partnerships including the exclusive rights to the Duchy Originals brand.
Extensive experience
He joined Morrisons in 2010 in the newly created role of commercial director, before taking up his current role. He quit in November 2012 as the supermarket’s fortunes began to nose-dive.
David Beever, chairman of Premier Foods, said his extensive experience of modern food retailing would be invaluable in helping the company navigate the rapidly changing marketplace.
Hodgson said: “Premier Foods has some of the best food brands around with many growth opportunities. I'm very excited by the prospect of helping the company continue its turnaround and I look forward to working with the board to deliver its vision and strategy."
Meanwhile, view our photogallery of Premier Foods’s year in review to refresh yourself with the developments of the business in 2014.