Sales director Christian Boulter will take up the role following Daniels’ departure, after more than a decade at the helm of the business’s UK and Ireland operations.
Boulter’s promotion comes as the family-owned chocolate bar maker looks to build on a sustained period of growth in the UK market.
Daniels joined Ritter Sport in 2014 and helped transform the UK business from a small operation into one of Ritter Sport’s strongest international markets.
Prior to joining Ritter Sport, he held senior roles at a range of major manufacturers, including Ferrero, Kettle Foods and Greencore.
Commenting on his decision, Daniels said: “After more than a decade leading Ritter Sport UK & Ireland, I’ve taken the decision to move on and begin a new chapter in my career.
“I leave knowing the business is in a strong position. Christian is an outstanding leader who understands our consumers, customers, ambitions and our culture. I couldn’t think of a better person to lead the next phase of Ritter Sport’s growth, and I wish him and the whole team every success.”
The move marks a rapid rise for Boulter, however, who only joined the firm last year but has “quickly established himself” as a key member of the UK leadership team.
Ritter Sport said Boulter helped shape the company’s commercial strategy, strengthen relationships with major retail partners and support some of its most significant retail wins, marketing activations and distribution gains while working alongside Daniels.
The company has grown to become the UK’s fastest-growing block chocolate brand, surpassing £25 million in UK retail sales and securing a presence across all major retailers.
Boulter said: “It is a real privilege to take on the role of managing director at such a pivotal time for the business. Benedict leaves behind an outstanding team, strong customer relationships, and a business with genuine momentum.
“Consumers are buying chocolate differently today. They may be buying less often, but they’re expecting more from every purchase. That’s why we’ll continue investing in quality, innovation and distribution, helping even more consumers discover Ritter Sport while delivering sustainable growth for our retail partners.”
He added: “I’d also like to thank Ben personally for everything he has done for the business. The foundations he has built over the past decade give us an incredibly strong platform for the future, and I’m very much looking forward to leading the next chapter of Ritter Sport’s growth across the UK and Ireland.”
