Branston has announced the appointment of Jason Kelly as the potato supplier’s chief operating officer.
Kelly brings with him more than 25 years of experience in senior roles, including most recently as vice-president of global manufacturing for Krispy Kreme.
He has a track record of “transforming the operational processes of national and international businesses”, which he hopes to bring to Branston.
Before working at Krispy Kreme, Kelly was head of operations for produce at Morrisons and was responsible for implementing innovative ways of packing and processing fresh produce.
“I really missed the dynamic nature of the fresh produce and added value sector and when I was looking for my next challenge knew it was something I’d like to explore again,” said Kelly. “A very strong culture, coupled with significant stakeholder growth plans, presents a rare opportunity to have a transformational impact on the business.
“Ultimately this was what led me to Branston and within my first few weeks it’s obvious I’ve made the right decision.”
Kelly will have responsibility for procurement, logistics and operations across the group. He will also be tasked with improving efficiencies, longer-term futureproofing and supporting the wider senior team in the next stage of planned growth and further investment.
“Operational and true end-to-end supply chain management is important in any business, but for Branston, an organisation that relies on its strategic relationships between growers, retailers and end consumers, it is vital to success,” said Kelly. “Quality and consistency are essential within the fresh produce and added value sector, but farming is a hard profession and we need to do right by our suppliers – achieving this balance is the purpose of my role.”
Branston CEO Jim Windle said Kelly was the “ideal addition to the team to support the next stage of our vision”.
“His experience so far is the ideal grounding, and it fuels his passion for world-class food manufacturing, as well as his drive to make improvements throughout our entire supply chain, an area which has never been more pivotal in the UK potato industry.
“I am looking forward to working closely with him and seeing the positive impact and evolution he will bring to Branston.”
No comments yet