Departure of 2 Sisters chilled boss sparks fears
In an internal statement revealed to FoodManufacture.co.uk, Ranjit Boparan, ceo of 2 Sisters, states: “Kuldip Kular, md, Chilled is leaving the company on January 31, 2014 after a distinguished 15 year career ... to spend more time with his family.”
Boparan acknowledges the positive contribution to the business from Kular, who was a leading light at Northern Foods when it was acquired by 2 Sisters in April 2011.
“Kuldip has been instrumental in building the group’s reputation for high quality food in both the ready meals and ‘food to go’ categories and as a key member of my leadership team, he has made an invaluable contribution in helping to drive the group’s sharp focus on our customers and on growth.”
Simon Wookey commercial director, frozen, has been promoted from within the company to succeed Kular with immediate effect.
‘Thorough handover’
“Kuldip will work with Simon through June and July to ensure a thorough handover takes place and then his focus will be on ... working alongside [group purchasing and supply chain director] Chris Walker, until he leaves at the end of January,” Boparan states.
“I would like to thank Kuldip for the enormous contribution that he has made to the business. His work ethic, deep food experience and customer relationship skills have been invaluable and he goes with our very best wishes and hopes that he enjoys the next phase of his life with his family.”
The move has been challenged by some, with one source within 2 Sisters who didn't want to be named pointing to Kular’s considerable achievements in Northern Foods’ chilled food unit and claiming Kuldip’s departure was initiated by the company.
‘Class-leading growth’
“Kuldip has delivered class-leading growth in chilled for over 10 years ... he has been one of Ranjit’s closest aides ... and yet performance does not seem to count, this is how he is treated.”
Given Kular’s successful leadership of chilled foods, the source questions the wisdom of the decision.
However, speaking to FoodManufacture.co.uk, 2 Sisters stressed that Kular’s departure was his choice.
A spokesman for 2 Sisters said Kular would continue to work alongside Walker to “help the procurement team on a key project”.
