The food and drink industry is undergoing a period of rapid transformation — from sustainability pressures and shifting consumer expectations to regulatory change, supply‑chain resilience and the rise of new product categories. This month, a wave of senior appointments across packaging, manufacturing, retail, beverages and functional drinks reflects how businesses are positioning themselves for the next phase of growth.

From global CEOs to association presidents and innovation leads, these leaders bring deep expertise in sustainability, science, operations, brand building and commercial strategy. Together, their appointments signal a sector preparing for accelerated change — and investing in the people who can help navigate it.

Andreas Birmoser appointed president of Pro Carton

Pro Carton has appointed Andreas Birmoser, executive vice president, Cartonboard at Stora Enso, as its new president. With more than 20 years’ experience in the forest and cartonboard industry, Birmoser brings international leadership across strategy, commercial development and operational management.

The document notes that he has “played a key role in driving business transformation and sustainable growth,” making him well placed to guide the association through evolving EU packaging regulation. Birmoser said it is “a real honour… at such an important moment for our industry,” emphasising the need for a unified industry voice.

Director general Horst Bittermann said Birmoser’s “strategic leadership and collaborative approach” will strengthen Pro Carton’s role in shaping science‑based policy and championing fibre‑based packaging.

Ben Loughrey appointed chair of the Farm Retail Association

The Farm Retail Association has named Ben Loughrey as its new chair, succeeding Emma Mosey. Loughrey, who runs the retail arm of Over Farm, brings hands‑on experience in farm retail and visitor engagement.

He said he is excited to “champion creativity, innovation, and growth in farm retail,” helping members deliver more engaging local food experiences. The FRA said his leadership will support best practice, networking and development across the UK’s rural retail sector.

Alfa Laval appoints Alessandro Bracco as managing director UK & Ireland

Alfa Laval has appointed Alessandro Bracco as managing director for the UK & Ireland as part of a strategic push into high‑growth sectors including food and beverage. With 20 years’ experience across B2B sales, marketing and commercial strategy, Bracco said, “There has never been a more exciting time to take the helm at Alfa Laval.”

He succeeds Rachel Bridges and will focus on efficiency, decarbonisation and growth opportunities across UK industry.

BioPak appoints Saxon Wright as chief sustainability officer

BioPak has appointed Saxon Wright, founder of Huskee, as its first chief sustainability officer. CEO Guy Brent said the move reflects BioPak’s ambition to be “the best long‑term partner in sustainable packaging.”

Wright said the role is about “discipline, transparency and accountability,” and will focus on co‑creating sustainability pathways with customers amid rising regulatory and consumer expectations.

Frive appoints Caryn McLaren as head of NPD and promotes Siobhan North to marketing director

Meal delivery company Frive has appointed Caryn McLaren as its first head of NPD and promoted Siobhan North to marketing director.

McLaren will lead innovation, trend forecasting and concept development, supporting Frive’s mission to deliver UPF‑free, personalised nutrition. She said she is excited to create “exciting, innovative dishes” that reflect evolving consumer habits.

North will focus on brand building and customer growth, aiming to turn Frive into a brand consumers “actively seek out and champion.”

Sentia appoints Jerome Pellaud as MD

Functional drinks brand Sentia has appointed Jerome Pellaud, formerly of AB InBev, as managing director. With a PhD in biophysical chemistry and 26 years in beverage innovation, Pellaud said Sentia is “doing something truly new” by creating drinks designed around how people want to feel.

Professor David Nutt said his appointment is a “huge endorsement” of Sentia’s scientific foundations.

Heineken nominates Rafael Oliveira as next CEO

Heineken has nominated Rafael (Rafa) Oliveira, CEO of JDE Peet’s, as its next chief executive officer, effective October 2026. The supervisory board said he is a “dynamic, visionary leader” with a track record of transforming global consumer businesses.

Oliveira said he is “honoured and excited” to lead one of the world’s most iconic beverage companies.

Ocean Spray appoints Abigail Buckwalter as president & CEO

Ocean Spray has appointed Abigail Buckwalter, formerly CEO of Nestlé Health Science US, as its new president and CEO. Chairman Peter Dhillon said she is a “transformational leader” with a rare blend of global vision and people‑first leadership.

Buckwalter said Ocean Spray is “uniquely positioned” to meet rising expectations around taste and health.

Ishida Europe appoints Takayo Motegi as managing director

Ishida Europe has appointed Takayo Motegi, a 30‑year Ishida veteran, as managing director. Motegi succeeds Dave Tiso, who becomes Chairman.

Motegi said he looks forward to “building on the strong foundations” and strengthening customer partnerships across EMEA.

Nestlé appoints Antonia Wanner as chief communications & sustainability officer

Nestlé has promoted Antonia Wanner to chief communications and sustainability officer and executive board member. CEO Philipp Navratil said she will make communications “an even stronger driver of business impact” and strengthen stakeholder engagement by aligning sustainability and communications.