Samworth Brothers appoints Brakes CEO as new boss to replace outgoing Flor Healy

Samworth Brothers has poached the CEO of foodservice giant Brakes to take over the reins from Flor Healy, who is retiring from the top role at the Ginster and Soreen supplier.

Healy joined the group at the start of 2018, filling a long-time vacancy at the top of Samworths following previous boss Alex Knight leaving the family-owned business in March of that year.

Mahoney, who has been appointed as chief executive designate, is expected to join Samworth in April.

Samworth chairman Mark Samworth said Mahoney had “an impressive track record of leading and growing businesses in a variety of sectors”.

“In his current role at Brakes, he has successfully led the organisation through a significant period of transformation and development.

“In our discussions with Hugo, we were impressed by his commitment to move businesses forward through his engagement with colleagues and customers, his passion for business to be a positive contributor to society, and the breadth of his thinking about the future. As a family business, it is always important to us that our leadership is aligned to our values, and I am confident that Hugo will be a strong champion of our unique culture and ethos.”

Healy has spent a long career in the food industry, joining Kerry Group as part of its graduate development programme in 1984 and leading the Irish supplier’s consumer foods division as CEO from 2004 until he joined Samworth.

Samworth added: “While we are saddened by Flor’s decision to retire, we understand his desire to step back after a long and distinguished career in the food industry.”

He said Healy has been “an outstanding leader”.

“Supported by the group executive board, he has reshaped and developed the business in a very significant way.

“He has also provided decisive and inspiring leadership for our people through the extreme challenges of the pandemic. I would like to add my personal thanks and admiration for all that he has done for Samworth Brothers and for the wider industry throughout his impressive career.”

Mahoney said: “Samworth Brothers has an impressive leadership team and business, and I am looking forward to contributing to its future success. We have a shared passion in quality food and innovation, and there are many future opportunities for the business.”