After obtaining a degree in Food Technology from Manchester Metropolitan University, Unwin took up a position with The Malton Food Group before joining Interfood Technology in 2000.
Since then, Unwin has progressed from divisional manager through to sales director of Interfood’s slicing division. In 2017, he was appointed as group operations director.
Co-founder James Sydenham will remain active in the business as a director and shareholder and will focus on developing the supply base, including onboarding some new suppliers to further extend Interfood’s offering, while continuing to support the management team in taking the business forward.
Speaking after the announced of Unwin’s promotion, Sydenham commented: “This year sees the 25th anniversary for Interfood, and I think it’s the perfect time to step back and encourage the business to evolve. I am delighted that Rob has agreed to take on the MD role and I congratulate him on his thoroughly deserved promotion.
“It is an exciting time for the business and with his extensive experience of the food industry and his understanding of Interfood, our values and our partnership approach, Rob is in the prime position to continue the evolution of the business.”
Unwin explained that he would look to maintain Interfood’s “partnership philosophy” which he credited for its success.
“We have always looked to do things slightly differently, working closely with our customers to create tailormade solutions,” he added.
“Our focus is offering complete aftercare packages which recognise the importance of optimisation, training, and ongoing support, within the scope of being a total solutions provider. Whilst focusing on our core business within the meat sector, we will continue to expand our offering within related industries, prioritising our launch of the Interfood Bakery Division where we have recently attracted a number of quality suppliers.
“I am proud of the importance Interfood has always placed on investing in and developing its colleagues to create a strong team with wide ranging experience, industry knowledge and expertise. This is typified by the launch of our new graduate scheme through which we are developing the next generation of Interfood talent.”
In other news, Roebuck Food Group acquires Scottish ingredients supplier for £2.23m.