His appointment followed a short period in the role of consultant to the company. Bedford will be in charge of strengthening and building both Holmesterne’s engineering and technical teams to deliver its ambition for long-term strategy and growth.
Since his arrival, Bedford had already introduced automation to Holmesterne’s key manufacturing lines to speed up production processes and increase output by 25%, according to the business.
A Holmesterne spokesman said: “A people person with a clear management style, Shaun has already implemented a transparent culture in the business improving teamwork and motivation.
‘Transformation projects are his specialism’
“Successful business transformation projects are his specialism and include all production operations, retail solutions, continuous Improvements, distribution, engineering, commercial growth and business development.”
Bedford has more than 30 years’ experience in the food and drink industry across a number of senior roles.
Commenting on his appointment, Bedford said: “I’ve recently held several posts overseas and when I was invited on board I literally felt as if I was coming home.
“Holmesterne Foods is a proud Yorkshire company with its roots in the local communities and a track record of success and expansion since 1987. I am really looking forward to sharing this passion for Yorkshire as we gear up for the future.”
‘Track record of success’
Holmesterne Foods is based just outside Catterick in North Yorkshire and has a turnover of more than £17M a year. It supplies UK supermarkets and foodservice outlets with raw and cooked meats and vegetables, as well as components for ready meals.
Significant investment has been made by the company in engineering and automation at its two production plants and in key personnel to drive growth in new markets.
Meanwhile, last week, the former chief operating officer of Nomad Foods Europe, Tania Howarth, joined the board of Ozo Innovations as chairman.