High Liner Foods has appointed the company’s chief financial officer as its interim CEO after Rod Hepponstall announced his resignation last month.

Paul Jewer has taken over the role as the Canada-based seafood company looks for a permanent replacement after Hepponstall’s departure. Jewer’s appointment has caused Hepponstall to leave the company with immediate effect.

The publicly-listed company added that Jewer will continue to hold his duties as CFO, a role which he has held since 2014.

“Paul’s extensive experience and proven track record of leadership with High Liner Foods will provide stability and continuity for the organisation as we continue to work through the transition process,” Robert Pace, the chair of the High Liner Foods board, said.

“The board of directors determined that it was in the best interests of the company to put in place interim executive management that can serve as long as needed, and we are fully confident in Paul’s ability to lead the organisation during this important chapter in the company’s history.”

High Liner Foods’ products are sold throughout the US and Canada under the High Liner, Fisher Boy, Mirabel, Sea Cuisine and Catch of the Day labels.

The company is also a supplier of private-label seafood to North American food retailers and foodservice distributors.

“I am humbled and honoured to serve as the interim chief executive officer of this incredible organisation,” Jewer said.

“I look forward, in this interim period, to working with our great leadership group to build upon the solid foundation and momentum we have in place.”

In its financial results for the 26 weeks to 1 July, High Liner Foods’ sales increased 6.4% to $583.5m. Adjusted EBITDA dipped 0.9% to $53.2m. Net income was 41.1% lower at $19.8m.

In 2022, High Liner Foods generated sales of $1.07bn, up 22.2% on a year earlier.