Pladis hires new UK and Ireland md

His appointment followed current UK & Ireland md Jon Eggleton stepping down from the role after 14 years with the company to pursue new opportunities outside the business.

Bunker will be in charge of accelerating the growth of Pladis’s core brands in the UK, including McVitie’s, Jacob’s and Godiva, alongside expansion across other snacking categories.

As ceo of KP Snacks, Bunker led the re-structuring of the business and revitalisation of its brand portfolio. Previously, he spent 12 years in senior management roles at Kraft, including president of Kraft Foods and Cadbury UK and Ireland.

‘High quality and well-loved brands’​

Commenting on his appointment, Bunker said: “I am thrilled to be joining Pladis as I have long admired its portfolio of high quality and well-loved brands, strong market positions and entrepreneurial spirit.​

“I am looking forward to working with the whole Pladis team to continue to develop the business and the outstanding opportunities ahead.”​

Cem Karakas, global ceo of Pladis, welcomed Bunker to the company. He also thanked Eggleton for his contribution to the company.

“During his ​[Eggleton’s] tenure​ we have successfully integrated the former United Biscuits business into the newly created Pladis organisation and built a strong foundation for continued growth in our core UK and Ireland ​[UK&I] region and beyond​,” ​said Karakas.

‘Experienced and talented executive’​

“The UK&I is one of our most important markets and I am delighted to welcome Nick Bunker into the business. He is a highly experienced and talented executive who will ensure we achieve on our potential.”​

Last year, Yildiz Holding brought together its core biscuit, chocolate, and confectionery businesses to form a new £3.58bn multinational firm called Pladis​, intended to become “a global leader​” in the sector.

The firm included Yildiz Holding’s brands: United Biscuits, Godiva Chocolatier, Ulker and DeMet’s Candy Company.

Meanwhile, appointments by Weetabix, Kerry Group and Red Tractor Assurance led our latest photogallery​ of people on the move to new jobs in the food and drink industry.