The move will see the former Mars man step into the newly-created role, reporting to CEO Nick Field.
Nick Reade joins the company after a lengthy 11-year spell at Mars, where he held a variety of senior positions, culminating in UK and Ireland general manager – a role he held since April 2023.
Prior to his time at Mars, Reade spent several years at PepsiCo, rising to head of shopper, customer marketing and in-store activation.
In his new function, Reade will now be responsible for shaping and delivering The Compleat Food Group’s commercial strategy and bringing together its customer, category, product, marketing and outsourced functions.
His appointment comes at an opportune moment for the firm, which has recently seen its turnover pass £1.4 billion.
Commenting on his appointment, Reade said: “The growth of The Compleat Food Group since its inception in 2021 has been fantastic to observe and the opportunity to be part of its continued success was hugely appealing.
“With its exciting brands and category-leading capabilities, alongside its Food to Feel Good ethos, this is a business that really embraces a modern entrepreneurial spirit with genuine heart and purpose. I’m looking forward to getting around the business and our customers to continue to innovate, drive standards and create delicious, tasty food.”
The Nottingham-based group operates some of the UK’s most famous food brands, including Wall’s Pastry, Pork Farms, Wrights, unearthed, Vadasz, Squeaky Bean, and Palace Culture.
It has also recently acquired the Real Yorkshire Pudding Co, Freshpak, SK Foods, and Zorba Foods, and the speciality food producer and distributer Harvey & Brockless; as well as Greencore’s sauces and soups business in Bristol, following approval from the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA).
Field added: “We’re delighted to welcome Nick to the Group. He brings deep experience in UK FMCG, a track record of driving commercial performance, and a leadership style focused on clarity, accountability and empowering teams to do their best work.
“The creation of this role and Nick’s appointment completes a new enhanced leadership structure for the group which will support in driving the next phase of our journey, building on our commitment to deliver great tasting products, sustained category growth and delighting our customers and consumers alike.”
