UK-based William Jackson Food Group has promoted James Watson to chief executive following the departure of Norman Soutar, who stepped down as CEO after almost 14 years in the role.
Watson was appointed CEO this month following a year as chief operating officer, according to a note on the company’s website. Prior to that, he was managing director for four years at Aunt Bessie’s, the frozen food brand owned by William Jackson Food Group until it was sold to UK-based Nomad Foods in 2018.
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The new CEO joined William Jackson, based in Hull, north-east England, in 2008 as corporate development director and also oversaw the Jacksons bakery operation for four years as managing director.
His previous career history includes a stints at UK-based soups maker Baxters Food Group and investment bank JPMorgan Chase & Co.
As well as bread, William Jackson Food Group’s portfolio also includes balsamic vinegars and olive oils after it acquired the Belazu brand last year, when it also bought UK ingredients supplier Wellocks. The company also supplies fresh and organic vegetables through its business units MyFresh and Abel and Cole.
