Mexican dairy company Grupo Lala has announced its chief executive officer Mauricio Leyva will step down at the end of the year.
Leyva has held the CEO position since September 2018.
In a statement, Lala said the company’s results for the fiscal year “have fallen short of stated goals and objectives”. Lala’s board of directors has begun a process to identify and appoint a new CEO.
The company has reappointed Arquímedes Celis Ordaz to the role of CEO on an interim basis.
Celis, who retired as Lala’s CEO in 2015, first joined the company in 2001. During his tenure at the helm, Lala grew sales organically by 11.6% and EBITDA by 11.2% annually.
Group Lala said Celis has more than 37 years of experience in related senior management roles “with extensive experience in sales, marketing and operations”. Celis also serves on the board of directors of Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation.
Earlier this year, Grupo Lala relocated its corporate headquarters to the WeWork Santa Fe complex in Mexico City.
Source: FoodBev
Danone has appointed Carla Hilhorst to the newly created position of senior vice president of research and innovation categories and zones, as the company looks to make science the heart of its business. Hilhorst, who brings over 30 years of experience in research and innovation, will report directly to Isabelle Esser, Danone’s chief research, innovation, quality and food safety officer.
The move, part of Pernod Ricard’s strategy to enhance its premiumisation efforts, will allow the company to focus more resources on its portfolio of premium international spirits and champagne brands that drive the growth of its business. This decision aligns with the company’s commitment to delivering sustainable value for shareholders, employees, clients and partners.
Schai – who is the current CEO of Swiss chocolate company Lindt & Sprüngli’s Australian operation – has previously worked with Aryzta from 2015-2018, where he served in roles including managing director for Asia Pacific and global strategic business lead (McDonald’s). The fast-food giant McDonald’s is one of Aryzta’s significant clients.
