Pork processer Pilgrims UK taps former Seara Foods leader as President
UK – Pilgrims UK, the UK division of US-based Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation, has appointed former head of Brazilian meat group Seara Foods, Ivan Siqueira as its new President.
Siqueira succeeds Andrew Cracknell, who joined the business in 2018 to manage the ‘on-going transformation’ of the struggling company.
He boasts of more than 29 years’ experience within the pork and poultry industries, having most recently served as executive director for Brazilian integrated pork and poultry business Seara Foods.
Under his leadership, Seara experienced a significant growth rate in sales over the last three years and solidified itself as a market leader in sustainability, animal welfare, innovation and quality products.
Commenting on his appointment, Siqueira said: “I am humbled to have the opportunity to help lead this talented team as we work together to continue the proud legacy of delivering sustainably produced, quality pork products to consumers across the UK.
I look forward to helping Pilgrim’s UK realize our vision to be the best and most respected company in our industry.”
President and global chief executive Fabio Sandri welcomed Siqueira to his new role while reinforcing the business’s commitment to sustainable farming and higher welfare standards.
“Ivan has demonstrated the ability to accelerate business growth and drive profitability through the creation of innovative brands well-recognized for superior quality and taste,” Sandri added.
“We are confident that Ivan’s commitment to excellence and vast experience across operations, farming and commercial activities will help our European business platform and our customers thrive for years to come.”
Siqueira’s appointment comes two months after the pork processor acquired lamb processor Randall Parker Foods in its quest to expand across the animal protein sector.
Müller Yogurt and Desserts makes senior appointment
Meanwhile, Müller Yogurt & Desserts has strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of Toby Bevans as strategy and marketing director.
Bevans joined the dairy manufacturer from coffee firm Jacobs Douwe Egberts (JDE), where he spent almost seven years across leadership roles – most recently serving as marketing director for UK and Ireland.
The appointment of Bevan from JDE comes less than a year after Cook’s own departure from the coffee giant in March.
It also follows the departure of Michael Inpong at the end of 2021, who had previously held the role of strategy and marketing director for the past nine years.
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