The company said that the board and Steve Murrells have agreed that now “is the right time” to search for a new leader to take the business forward.
It said the change will take place with immediate effect with Murrells available for a period of transitional support until the end of December 2025.
The board has since appointed Mark Allen, currently non-executive chair, as executive chair.
The company said that Allen has significant food industry, consumer goods and public company experience that will provide the business with strong executive leadership while the board considers CEO succession.
The group said it is in a strong financial position, and the board is confident in its long-term prospects.
Although it admitted that current trading remains challenging, the board’s expectations for the financial year ended 28 December 2025 are in-line with the guidance given in the trading update of 11 November 2025.
Earlier this year, Hilton Foods reported continued growth in its full-year financial results for the 52 weeks to 31 December 2024.
Allen said: “On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Steve for his important contribution to the group and we wish him well for the future.”
Murrells added: “Hilton Foods is a great business and I have been privileged to serve as its CEO. I’m particularly proud of the progress we have made in significantly expanding our international operations, most notably the expansion into Canada and Saudi Arabia. I would like to thank the group’s hard working, dedicated people and wish them and the business all the best for the future.”
Earlier this year, Hilton Foods has sold the catering butcher to Sysco GB as the group continues to reshape it strategy.
The company also recently agreed to the sale of £22 million worth of shares in supplier management platform, Foods Connected.
