Maple Leaf Foods Inc., a Canadian protein company, recently announced new executive appointments and further changes to its organizational structure in line with its refreshed strategic blueprint unveiled in 2024. The company has completed the realignment of its commercial and operations teams to support the execution of this blueprint.
Curtis Frank, the president and CEO of Maple Leaf Foods, highlighted the company’s focus on delivering its full potential as a Consumer Packaged Goods powerhouse since consolidating its meat and plant protein businesses under a unified strategy. He emphasized key areas of strength, including leading brands, sustainability initiatives, geographic expansion, and a diversified protein portfolio. These efforts are supported by a heightened focus on cost reduction and operational excellence.
Looking ahead to 2025, Frank described it as a transformational year for Maple Leaf Foods, with the advancement of the Fuel for Growth initiative as a primary objective. This initiative aims to establish the necessary structures for success, such as streamlining the leadership team, defining clear accountabilities, and enhancing the company’s competitive edge.
As part of the restructuring, Maple Leaf Foods has made changes to its senior leadership team. Mike Yang will join the company as chief supply chain officer, bringing with him a wealth of experience in leading manufacturing transformation and modernization initiatives. Josh Kuehnbaum has taken on the role of SVP, customer business development (Canada), consolidating responsibility for all Canadian retail and foodservice sales. Ryan Walker has been appointed as SVP, poultry, replacing a retiring executive after a successful career at Maple Leaf Foods.
Frank expressed his gratitude to the retiring executives for their contributions and dedication, while also congratulating the newly appointed leaders on their well-deserved roles. He expressed confidence in the team’s ability to capitalize on the company’s playbook for profitable growth and unlock its full business potential.
These organizational changes represent the next step in Maple Leaf Foods’ journey to sharpen its competitive edge and position itself for continued success in the protein industry. Source: Maple Leaf Foods Inc. (Source: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/maple-leaf-foods-announces-organizational-changes-as-the-next-step-in-sharpening-its-competitive-edge-302364801.html)
