FDBusiness.com

William Jackson Food Group, the East-Yorkshire headquartered food business, has appointed Paul Murphy (pictured) as its new Chief Executive Officer. Paul Murphy joins following 22 years in a variety of senior roles at Associated British Foods, completing his tenure as Managing Director of International Markets for Twinings.

William Jackson Food Group was founded in Hull in 1851 and comprises a portfolio of food businesses including Abel & Cole, Wellocks, Jacksons Bakery, Lottie Shaw’s, Belazu and Miso Tasty. The Group employs approximately 2,000 people.

Paul Murphy brings to William Jackson Food Group a wealth of commercial, strategic and leadership expertise. His previous roles span direct-to-consumer, business-to-business and retail, all of which are channels covered by businesses within the William Jackson portfolio. He has worked with a raft of household brands including Dorset Cereals, Jordans, Ryvita, Bacardi and Speedibake.

Commenting on his appointment, Sonya Eastaugh, Chairwoman at William Jackson Food Group and sixth-generation member of the Jackson family, said: “There’s a clear alignment between Paul’s expertise and the requirements here at William Jackson Food Group and we’re so excited to welcome him to the business. What makes Paul’s appointment even more special is the personal significance of his return to a company with strong roots in Hull. Beginning his career at Reckitt Benckiser in Hull, Paul has expressed his excitement at reconnecting with the area where his professional journey began and contributing to its legacy through our family business.”

It was strong family values and the diversity of the businesses within the William Jackson Food Group portfolio which drew Paul Murphy to the role. He commented: “The businesses within William Jackson Food Group are unique, diverse and will each bring their own opportunities and challenges. But they all have one thing in common: a passion for making great quality food, something which is a real personal interest of mine and has been a theme throughout my career. It’s an honour to be joining this proud, family-owned business and I’m looking forward to spending my first weeks in role getting to know the businesses, my colleagues and the family.”