The Compleat Food Group names new chief product officer

Howgego joins the manufacturer from Bighams, where he has spent the past seven years leading the company’s branded and own-label product strategies as commercial and sustainability director.

Prior to this, Howgego was commercial director at Higgidy, where he was responsible for the company’s commercial strategy.

His new role will see Howgego tasked with accelerating The Compleat Food Group’s growth by ‘maximising quality’ across its categories, focusing on affordable and sustainable food at every price tier.

Opportunity for growth

Commenting on his appointment, the new chief product officer said: “The Compleat Food Group is home to exciting branded and own label products across such a diverse range of categories, and there is so much opportunity for further growth. ​

“With an ongoing commitment to quality and creating exceptional food, The Compleat Food Group felt like an ideal place to take the next step in my career, and I am looking forward to working with the company as it enters the next phase of its journey.”​

Formed in October 2021, The Compleat Food Group was created from the merger of Addo Food Group and Winterbotham Darby. An acquisition of Wrights Food Group followed in December 2021, and earlier this year the group also acquired SK Foods and Zorba Foods.

Investment in quality

Howgego’s appointment was heralded as a ‘major investment in quality’ by the business as it works to establish itself as the UK’s top chilled prepared food category.

Chief executive Nick Field added: “Our ethos at The Compleat Food Group has always been to create great quality, tasty and affordable food that people love to eat. Our growth to date has been testament to this ongoing commitment, but we are always striving to go further and to continuously improve our branded and own label offering to develop the very best food for our customers and consumers alike.  ​

“Mark’s wealth of experience and his passion for creating great products will be incredibly valuable as we continue in this mission, and we are delighted to welcome him to our team.”​

Meanwhile, leading potato supplier Branston has announced the appointment of a new general manager at its Lincoln site.​​