Brakes Group today announced the appointment of Stefan Barden as UK CEO.
Stefan joins from Northern Foods, where he is currently CEO, and will report to Group Chief Executive, Philip Jansen.
Stefan has extensive experience of the industry, including holding senior roles at Iceland Frozen Foods and Heinz UK as well 5 years at Northern
Foods; 4 as CEO. Stefan began his career at Unilever. Most recently Stefan led a strong operational turnaround at Northern Foods, stabilizing the business after a series of profit warnings; increasing sales and profits, and refocusing the portfolio and improving customer relationships over
his 4 year tenure as CEO.
This turnaround has helped Northern Foods achieve its proposed merger with Greencore. Commenting on the appointment, Philip Jansen, Group Chief Executive, said: “I am delighted to welcome Stefan to Brakes. He is an experienced and talented leader who will bring a great deal to our business. Stefan’s appointment will provide us with dedicated leadership of our important UK business and enable Group COO, Ian Goldsmith to focus on building our international operations. I very much look forward to working with Stefan.”
Stefan Barden commented: “This is a great opportunity and I’m very much looking forward to joining the Brakes team. I have been extremely impressed by Philip’s vision and ambition for the Group, the quality of the management team, and the attention and support that Bain Capital give the business. I am excited to be working with Philip and his team to support the Group’s future growth plans. Brakes is a significant player in the UK and I will support management in delivering the highest levels of service and quality to our customers.”