Weetabix restructures manufacturing leadership team
The changes have been introduced following the departure of Patrick Rigby, group operations director.
John Petre, previously head of technical, has been promoted to the new position of supply chain and technical director. Dave McBeain, senior vice president of business change and organisation effectiveness, will act in an interim capacity as manufacturing director while a permanent candidate is sought.
The cereal company said the restructure would allow it to focus further on creating supply chain efficiencies.
Weetabix said that both Petre and McBeain would join the executive leadership team, reporting into managing director Sally Abbott.
Petre will lead the Weetabix Food Company Sustainability Steering Group as the company looks to continuously strengthen its approach towards sustainability.
“In recent years, we’ve overseen considerable investment and change across our manufacturing operations. We’re very pleased that John Petre will lead our technical and supply teams going forwards, utilising his experience and knowledge of the business to drive innovation, efficiency and capacity to grow,” said Abbott.
“A key part of our talent and succession strategy is to give our people the tools to advance their careers, so we’re delighted that John has been able to progress here at Weetabix.”
Abbott added that Weetabix is targeting further improvements for technical functions, as well as continuing to focus on integrated business planning via its supply chain.
Petre said: “I’m delighted to be joining an outstanding leadership team, working on one of Britain’s best-loved brands. Safety and quality are in great shape at Weetabix and these will remain a core focus of everything I do in the future.”
Weetabix produces brands including Weetabix, Weetabix Minis, Alpen, Weetabix On The Go Breakfast Drink, Ready Brek, Weetos and Alpen bars.
