BakeAway appoints new operations director

He joins the Corby, Northamptonshire-based business from confectionery manufacturer Barry Callebaut, where he had served as operations director for almost two years.

Prior to his time with the chocolatier, Garcia spent almost 10 years at Imperial Brands across a number of senior managerial positions.

In his new role, Garcia has been tasked with elevating the brand’s growth in the UK market.

Period of growth

Commenting on his appointment, Garcia said: “I jumped at the opportunity to work for BakeAway, especially during this period of growth for the organisation. ​

 “I consider myself fortunate to lead BakeAway during this pivotal phase, with a focus on investing further in our people, buildings and machinery, as they are the backbone of our success.”​

BakeAway manufactures pastry and dough, supplying grocery retailers with private label products including puff pastry, shortcrust pastry, pizza dough and cookie dough. BakeAway also services the UK market with chilled and frozen pancakes. 

In 2016, the company was acquired by the Cérélia group allowing the brand to fully realise its ambition to grow the scale of the business and move to a brand-new factory in 2020.

Bringing his experience to BakeAway

“From the moment I was awarded apprentice of the year during my first ever year at work years ago, I developed a passion for continuously striving for excellence,”​ Garcia added.

“This mentality has remained with me throughout my professional journey, and I look forward to bringing this same passion and dedication to BakeAway.”​

Meanwhile, earlier this month, sauces and tinned vegetables giant Kraft Heinz has announced the appointment of Carlos Abrams-Rivera as its new chief executive,​​ effective from 1 January 2024.

Abrams-Riveria is currently president of North America Zone, overseeing Kraft Heinz’s US and Canadian operations. Prior to his time with the business, he has held a number of senior positions with prolific food and drink manufacturing companies, including Mondelēz International and Campbell.