Valeo Foods and BCMPA announce senior appointments

Jacob’s and Kettle brand owner Valeo Foods Group has appointed Louis-Francois Gombert as its new Group chief financial officer.

He succeeds Brendan Freeney following his decision to step back from the business after 11 years with the company.

Gombert has a proven track record within senior financial roles across a number of food and drink firms, including Orangina-Schweppes, Suntory and most recently Havea Group where he was chief financial officer for the past three-and-a-half years.

Commenting on Gombert’s appointment, incoming group chief executive Ronald Kers said: “We are very excited about working together with Louis-Francois, tapping into his wealth of expertise as a seasoned finance leader, and we wish him every success in his new role. ​

“To Brendan, we thank him for his very significant contribution to the business over the last decade where he played a key role in its growth, development and success.”​

Group appointments

Valeo Foods announced the appointment of former 2 Sisters Food Group leader Ronald Kers as its next Group chief executive​​ in February this year. This past month also saw the company reveal former Greencore deputy chief executive and chief commercial officer Kevin Moore had been appointed the new chief executive of Valeo Foods Group.​​

Gombert added: “I’m very excited to join Valeo Foods, and look forward to supporting the ambition of continuing to build a leading European food business with global reach and impact.”​

This week also saw the British Contract Manufacturers and Packers Association (BCMPA) announce the appointment of Emma Verkaik as its new chief executive.

Currently membership and marketing director, Verkaik takes over the role from Rodney Steel who retires from the role after 20 years on 1 June.

Commenting on his departure, Steel said: "It has been an honour to serve as Chief Executive, and I am proud of the accomplishments we have all achieved together.​

Transitioning roles

“I am confident that the Association will continue to thrive under Emma’s leadership, in what will no doubt be a seamless transition from her existing role."​

Verkaik thanked Steel for his contribution to the organisation and the path he set out for the BCMPA, a strong foundation to build upon.

“Our industry plays a key role in providing the solutions that help to ensure that products and goods are readily available in store or online when we need them,”​ she added.

“By further strengthening the collaborative relationship between BCMPA members, brand owners and retailers we will continue to raise the profile of outsourcing to a wider audience and future proof our Association in this dynamic and innovative sector.”​

Meanwhile, Mars Pet Nutrition and UK Flour Millers have both announced senior appointments last week.​​