Wilkins joins the company from meat firm Tulip, where she held the position of human resources board director for 11 years.
In her new role, Wilkins will lead Moy Park’s HR functions and drive its talent management, communications and corporate responsibility strategy.
She has more than 20 years’ experience in the food and drink industry, including spending 10 years as head of personnel for chilled food business Samworth Brothers.
20 years’ experience
Commenting on the appointment, Moy Park chief executive Janet McCollum said: “People are at the heart of our business and we are pleased to welcome Kirsty to lead Moy Park’s HR and organisation development strategy.
“Her passion, extensive experience and knowledge of the food sector will be an invaluable asset to support the continued growth of the business.”
Wilkins joins the company’s executive leadership team, where she will contribute to the strategic development of the business.
She added: “As one of the UK’s largest food businesses, I’m delighted to join Moy Park and its talented leadership team.
‘Support its continued growth’
“Moy Park places a great emphasis on the development of its people and I’m looking forward to lending my experience and expertise to support its continued growth.”
Moy Park’s latest hire followed a number of food and drink industry appointments made in the past month.
Potato supplier Branston appointed Penny Francis as its new head of category to support the company’s growth.
She joined the company from 2 Sisters, where she worked as a senior category manager working with brands – including Aldi and Marks & Spencer.
Meanwhile, last month saw Assured Food Standards, owner of Red Tractor Assurance, appoint former commercial secretary to the Treasury Baroness Lucy Neville-Rolfe as its new chairman.
Kirsty Wilkins CV
- November 2017 – present: Moy Park, HR and organisation development director
- March 2006 – May 2017: Tulip, group HR director
- October 1995 – March 2006: Samworth Brothers, head of personnel
- 1998 – 1995: Boots UK, HR