Former Kerry Taste & Nutrition executive Frankgerald Stepp will be stepping into the role of chief supply chain officer in the new year, overseeing Pladis’ global end-to-end supply chain, which stretches across more than 110 markets.
His appointment at the biscuit, chocolate and snacks manufacturer follows a period of significant investment across its network. This includes a £68 million injection into its UK bakeries, expanded capabilities at its Cairo facility, increased production capacity in France, and strengthened operations in key markets such as Turkey and the US. In 2025 alone, the business invested more than £100 million in capital expenditure to improve capacity, productivity and resilience across its manufacturing network.
Stepp joins the business as it continues to build on this multi-year transformation, succeeding Mario Reis, who will retire at the end of 2026 after eight years in the role.
He brings with him three decades of experience in the food industry, with previous roles including senior leadership positions at ARYZTA, Kraft Foods and Mondelez International. For the last four years, he has served as Kerry’s chief operations officer for biotechnology business and global vice president of manufacturing.
Commenting on the appointment, Pladis’ chief HR officer, Geraldine Fraser, said: “Mario and his teams have played a central role in building the supply chain and manufacturing network we have today. Through significant investment and transformation, he has helped create a stronger platform for growth across our business.
“Frankgerald brings significant baking industry expertise, international experience and a strong track record of leading complex organisations. He joins us at an important point in our journey and will build on the strong foundations already in place as we focus on the next phase of growth.”
Stepp added: “Pladis has built an impressive portfolio of brands and a strong manufacturing network across its markets. I’m looking forward to joining the business and working with colleagues around the world to build on that foundation and support the company’s long-term ambitions.”
