Orchard House Foods announces leadership hires
Steve Corby joins the company from privately-owned chilled foods business Kanes Foods where he served as chief executive since 2016. Corby is credited for a successful turnaround for the business and a proven track record of success during his 30-year career in the fast moving consumer goods industry.
Prior to his time a Kanes Foods, Corby spent nine years at Cott Beverages where he was managing director for Europe and previously held a number of commercial leadership roles at both Northern Foods and Greencore.
Commercial director
Antony Greenwood will join Orchard House Foods from October as the company’s commercial director, having previously served as commercial and marketing director at washed and ready to eat salads producer Agrial Fresh Produce.
Greenwood also worked at Muller UK & Ireland Group, Dairy Crest and Nestle among others. He will succeed Jonathan Back who will be leaving Orchard House after three years to pursue other interests.
Orchard House’s latest hires followed the appointment of former Premier Foods chief executive Gavin Darby as executive chairman in March. This month also saw Orchard House managing director Alex Tompkins appointed chief operating officer.
Commenting on Corby and Greenwood’s appointments, Darby said: "Both Steve and Antony bring to Orchard House extensive experience in chilled produce, and the retailer brand experience.
Investing in people
“Strengthening the management team is part of our investment to allow us to capitalise on exciting opportunities we see for the business. We will also be investing in our people, technology, and processes to ensure we offer our customers the best service."
The appointments were part of the company’s investment in its growth strategy – supported by the UK-based private equity fund Elaghmore, which acquired Orchard House in January 2021.
Up to £4m of capital expenditure has already been committed to drive growth through new capacity, efficiency and innovation, according to Orchard House.
Meanwhile, from baking to whisky distilling, we cover appointments from across the industry over the past month in our round-up of people on the move in food and drink.
