Synergy Europe chief executive steps down

18-Nov-2021 - Last updated on 18-Nov-2021 at 16:59 GMT

Steve Morgan (left) has stepped down as chief executive of Synergy Europe, to be replaced by Sebastiano Pagano (right)

Synergy Flavours European chief executive Steve Morgan is to step down from the role at the end of this year, ending 14 years with the company.

Morgan – who previously held senior roles at McCormick and Nuitricia – will also step down from his positions with various trade associations, including the UK Flavour Association and the Seasoning & Spice Association.

Commenting on his departure, Morgan said: “I have immensely enjoyed my working life in the food and beverage industry, with my proudest achievements undoubtedly being the expansion of Synergy into Europe and Asia and building the talented team who will drive that success into the future.

Parting words

“I wish my colleagues in Carbery and Synergy, and everyone I have worked with in this incredible industry, the very best of success in all their endeavours.”

Synergy Asia chief executive Sebastiano Pagano will take over responsibility for Synergy’s European markets, sharing his time between both regions.

An industry veteran with more than 30 years’ experience within food and drink businesses, Pagano started his career with Nestlé, where he worked for 12 years. He then moved to the flavour industry with Firmenich, and held Vice President positions in Europe, Japan and Korea.

Prior to his current role with Carbery in Asia, he most recently worked with Kerry and was responsible for their Taste business in APAC/Middle East/Africa for more than five years.

Synergy’s future

Jason Hawkins, parent company Carbery Group chief executive, added: “Under Steve’s stewardship, Synergy has expanded rapidly to be a leading flavour manufacturer in the UK and has established subsidiaries in new geographies in Europe and Asia. We are sorry to see him go and wish him and his family all the very best for the future.

“I am confident that the leadership and thinking that Sebastiano brings, along with the Synergy Europe and Asia teams’ great passion and expertise, will further drive our success and deliver exceptional solutions for our customers.”

Meanwhile, former Sainsbury’s aquaculture and fisheries manager Ally Dingwall has joined the Aquaculture Stewardship Council as its new senior director of technical operations.