UK-based food business William Jackson Food Group has named Associated British Foods veteran Paul Murphy as its new CEO.
Murphy succeeds Sonya Eastaugh, who has been the Abel & Cole owner’s acting CEO since May last year. She took the role after previous CEO James Watson left the business.
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Eastaugh, a sixth-generation member of the Jackson family and the chairwoman of the group, said: “There’s a clear alignment between Paul’s expertise and the requirements here at William Jackson Food Group and we’re so excited to welcome him to the business.
“What makes Paul’s appointment even more special is the personal significance of his return to a company with strong roots in Hull. Beginning his career at Reckitt Benckiser in Hull, Paul has expressed his excitement at reconnecting with the area where his professional journey began and contributing to its legacy through our family business.”
Murphy joins the group following a 22-year tenure at Associated British Foods, where he was most recently the MD of international markets for tea brand Twinings.
Commenting on the new role, he said: “The businesses within William Jackson Food Group are unique, diverse and will each bring their own opportunities and challenges. But they all have one thing in common: a passion for making great quality food, something which is a real personal interest of mine and has been a theme throughout my career.”
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By GlobalDataThe East Yorkshire-based food company, established in 1851, is a sixth-generation family business.
Originating from a grocery shop opened by William Jackson in Hull, the group has since expanded to include seven food businesses.
Its portfolio includes Abel & Cole, Jacksons Bakery and condiments brand Belazu.
In April last year, the group acquired family-run West Yorkshire-based baking group Lottie Shaw’s for an undisclosed sum.
