Ian Kellett, who currently works as the group CFO at Parkdean Resorts, will officially take up the position on 1 August 2024.
With extensive experience in the retail and hospitality industry, Kellett led a transformation programme at Parkdean Resorts which involved overhauling its finance function, building stronger data ESG capabilities and underpinning growth for the private equity-backed holiday park business.
Prior to joining Parkdean Resorts in June, Kellett spent 12 years at Pets at Home during which time he served as both CFO and chief executive.
Following his arrival next month, Kellett will join the A.F. Blakemore board and executive team and will be responsible for finance, property, IT and procurement.
Founded in 1917, A.F. Blakemore owns 263 SPAR stores in England and Wales and operates across the foodservice and wholesale sectors.
Commenting on the announcement, CEO Carol Welch said: “Ian brings a wealth of leadership and financial expertise with a strong track record in business transformation, financial rigor, talent development and strategic planning and will be instrumental as we continue to pursue our long-term future growth objectives.”
Meanwhile, Kellett said that he was delighted to join the business where he would be focused on building a “better future at a very exciting time for the company”.
“With a team united by a passion for customers, great food and excellent service, backed by over six thousand colleagues, long standing independent retailer and supplier relationships, A.F. Blakemore is well placed to deliver on its growth aspirations as a leader in the convenience, wholesale, and foodservice sector,” Kellet added.
In December 2023, the firm announced the appointment of Lawrence Shirazian as the managing director of its newly formed foodservice business unit.
Since arriving at the business, Shirazian has been tasked with leading the newly created division which was established in order to unite A.F. Blakemore’s foodservice, fresh meat and wholesale divisions.
