Bells Food Group makes senior appointments

Third-generation family members David M Bell and Samantha Murray – along with new hire Gordon Smith – have joined the board as logistics director, finance director and sales and marketing director respectively.

Bell’s promotion follows 36 years working within the business, rising from the ranks of the van delivery team he joined in 1982. Similarly, Murray has been appointed finance director after spending 11 years in various roles across the family business.

20 years’ experience​

Smith’s appointment comes three years after joining the company and follows 20 years’ experience in the food and drink industry, including roles at drinks firm Beam Suntory and Mathiesons Food Group.

Also joining the senior team is chartered chemical engineer Debbie Briody, who has more than 25 years’ experience in manufacturing primarily focused in the drinks industry.

Managing director Ronnie Miles said: “We are delighted with our new senior appointments and they signify a real step-change for the business, as we build capacity and expertise at a senior level to continue our ambitious expansion and innovation plans.​ 

‘Success for future generations’ ​

“Appointing two members of the Bell family to the corporate board is an absolute honour and both David and Samantha will help shape and secure the success of the business for this and future generations. Gordon and Debbie bring a wealth of experience to the company and will help us grow and develop the business even further.”​

Established in 1931 by founder Donald Bell, Bells Food Group now employs more than 220 people, producing pies and pastry across three sites in Shotts, Lanarkshire. Its annual turnover is £18.5m and growing.

Meanwhile, Food Manufacture ​visited Bells’ Hawthorn Bakery​​ to talk to managing director Ronnie Miles about how investment at the site had heralded a boost in sales for the manufacturer.