UK food company Symington’s announced today (30 October) its chief executive John Power departed in September having served in the role for three years, with former Fox’s Biscuits director David Cox set to takeover the helm of the snacks to sauces and noodles maker. 

The company did not provide any further information behind Power’s departure in a statement today other than he “left Symington’s in September”. He was promoted to CEO in 2016 from the position of chief operating officer.

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Cox will join the Leeds-based business on 4 November.

Cox is an industry veteran who most-recently served as managing director of Fox’s, the biscuit manufacturer owned by Boparan Holdings, which in turn owns the UK food company 2 Sisters Food Group. 

He previously spent four years at another food heavyweight, UK-based General Mills, where he was managing director for Europe. Other appointments included stints at UK supermarket chain Tesco and consumer goods giant Unilever.

Tim Whiting, Symington’s chairman, said: “David is highly respected in the food industry and brings significant retail experience. We are delighted to have attracted him to Symington’s and look forward to working with him as we take forward our ambitious plans for the business.”  

Symington’s is present in the rice, pasta, soups and pulses segments, with its products supplied to retail and foodservice channels, and is also active in private label. Its brands include Mug Shot, Naked, ilumi, Chicken Tonight, Ragu and Twistd. Earlier this month, Symington’s secured listings with American retail giant Walmart.

Commenting on his appointment Cox added: “Symington’s is a fantastic business with huge potential and with great brands in growth markets. I look forward to joining the team at Symington’s and to the challenge of working across a number of different categories.”