Blake has previously worked as executive director for Ireland, Europe & strategic sourcing for the firm’s business unit.
Taking up his new role in March, Blake will be tasked with leading Ornua’s own label business in the UK, as well as driving forward the growth of flagship butter brand Kerrygold, as well as Pilgrims Choice, its flagship cheese brand.
Blake will also have responsibility for leading the team supporting the ongoing growth of the Kerrygold brand in its native Ireland and other key European markets.
According to Ornua, Blake will bring a wealth of experience to his new role, having held several senior leadership positions across the group’s global business since joining the organisation in 2013.
These have included roles spanning internal audit, finance and general management across the US, Ireland, Germany, and other international markets.
Commenting on the appointment César França, chief commercial officer at Ornua said: “Patrick is a highly respected leader within Ornua with extensive understanding of our business, our customers and our co-operative roots.
“He has consistently demonstrated commercial leadership and strategic capability across multiple markets including the US, Germany and Ireland. I am delighted to appoint Patrick to this role and look forward to working closely with him as we continue to grow Ornua Foods UK & Europe.”
Blake’s appointment follows Simon Ball’s decision to step down from his role as managing director of Ornua Foods UK & Europe to take up a new external opportunity.
Most recently, Blake had served as managing director of Ornua Foods International, where he oversaw “significant growth” of the Kerrygold brand.