Lotte Confectionery-owned premium Belgian chocolate brand and manufacturer, Guylian, has appointed Leen Baeten as its new chief executive officer.
Baeten succeeds Tom Snick after three years in the role after he announced his departure in March this year. At the time, Snick described his tenure at Guylian as “one of the most intense and joyful chapters of my working life”.
New CEO Baeten assumed the role today (1 August), bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the brand with more than 15 years of experience in the chocolate and confectionery industry.
Baeten spent 14 years at Godiva Chocolatier, where she held various marketing and leadership positions, culminating as head of business for Europe and marketing director for EMEA.
Baetan said: “I am thrilled to join Guylian and lead us into a new exciting chapter. Together we will build on our brand’s rich Belgian heritage and drive innovation to deliver exceptional chocolate experiences to our customers. I strongly believe that marketing will be the driving force in creating value for all stakeholders: employees, consumers and business partners, society and the planet. This requires insights and a long-term perspective on the brand’s positive impact, enhancing brand equity and future-proofing the company.”
By Phoebe Fraser
Source: foodbev.com
Barry Callebaut has named Natasha Chen president of its North American division, effective Sept. 16. She will succeed Ben De Schryver, who will leave Barry Callebaut to “pursue other opportunities,” the company said. In her new role, Chen will manage the company’s North American business in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Global snacking company Pladis has opened a new headquarters in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The site marks a milestone in Pladis’ strategic growth and expansion in the Middle East, North Africa and India (MENAI) region.
Located in the Zahran Business Center in Jeddah, the new office is equipped with new technology and was designed with a focus on sustainability.
Ferrero has announced the official European launch of a plant-based version of its iconic global hazelnut spread, Nutella. Beginning its roll-out with select European markets in autumn 2024, the new plant-based Nutella will soon be available to consumers in local supermarkets in a 350g jar.
