William Jackson Food Group (WJFG) has appointed Paul Murphy as its new chief executive, following James Watson’s departure from the role in May last year.
Murphy is set to assume the role on 28 April, bringing with him 22 years of experience at Kingsmill owner Associated British Foods, where he held several senior positions, most recently serving as managing director of international markets for Twinings tea.
According to WJFG, Murphy brings extensive commercial, strategic, and leadership expertise to the role. His career has spanned direct-to-consumer, B2B, and retail channels - all relevant to the group’s portfolio. He has also worked with a range of household names, including Dorset Cereals, Jordans, Ryvita, Bacardi, and Speedibake.
Murphy said he was drawn to the role by the strong family values and the diverse range of businesses within the William Jackson Food Group portfolio.
“The businesses within William Jackson Food Group are unique, diverse and will each bring their own opportunities and challenges,” Murphy said. “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.”
The William Jackson Food Group portfolio features a range of food businesses, including bakery manufacturer Jacksons and sweet treats brand Lottie Shaw’s, which it acquired last year. It also includes sustainable grocery specialist Abel & Cole, premium ingredients brand Belazu, miso paste producer Miso Tasty, and foodservice supplier Wellocks.
Sonya Eastaugh, chairwoman of William Jackson Food Group and a sixth-generation member of the Jackson family, said there is a “strong alignment between Paul’s expertise and the needs of 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,” she added. “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.”
In its full-year results for the period ending 27 April 2024, William Jackson Food Group reported a rise in turnover from continuing operations, reaching £334.3m.
