Murphy joins the East-Yorkshire headquartered food business from Associated British Foods, where he most recently served as managing director of International Markets for Twinings.
He also served as Twinings MD responsible for the UK, North America and Australia between 2022 to 2008, before spending 12 and a half years as chief executive of the Jordans Dorset Ryvita Company.
Commenting on his appointment, Murphy said: “The businesses within William Jackson Food Group are unique, diverse and will each bring their own opportunities and challenges.
‘A passion for great quality food’
“But they all have one thing in common – a passion for making great quality food, something which is a real personal interest of mine and has been a theme throughout my career.
“It’s an honour to be joining this proud, family-owned business and I’m looking forward to spending my first weeks in role getting to know the businesses, my colleagues and the family.”
William Jackson Food Group was founded in Hull in 1851 and comprises a portfolio of food businesses including Abel & Cole, Wellocks, Jacksons Bakery, Belazu and Miso Tasty. The Group employs approximately 2,000 people.
Group investment
Earlier this month, the group invested £500,000 into sweet treats bakery Lottie Shaw’s to expand its reach as it enters its next stage of growth.
William Jackson Food Group chairman Sonya Eastaugh said: “There’s a clear alignment between Paul’s expertise and the requirements here at William Jackson Food Group and we’re so excited to welcome him to the business.
“What makes Paul’s appointment even more special is the personal significance of his return to a company with strong roots in Hull. Beginning his career at Reckitt Benckiser in Hull, Paul has expressed his excitement at reconnecting with the area where his professional journey began and contributing to its legacy through our family business.”
Meanwhile, in other appointment news, Pladis has appointed David Jones as its vice president for quality and food safety on an interim basis.
