Nestlé UK & Ireland has announced key appointments in its leadership team: Katya Simmons steps in as the new managing director for coffee; Martin Krohn takes on the role of head of technical and production; and Lorenzo Vigano becomes the managing director of Nestlé Professional for both UK and Ireland operations.
Simmons, a seasoned veteran with over seven and a half years as managing director of Nestlé Professional, transitions to the coffee segment, reflecting her extensive experience in the food and drink industry innovation.
Having joined Nestlé in her native Russia back in 2002, Simmons has held a variety of senior positions across the company, showcasing her adaptability and commitment throughout her career.
Reflecting on her new responsibilities, Simmons stated: “I am thrilled to be leading the coffee sector in the UK and Ireland. Coffee has an exciting future ahead of it, and I am privileged to be part of the team taking it forward. I can’t wait to see what we will achieve and how we’ll drive growth across our incredible brands.”
Krohn, who joined the company in Germany in 2005, is another established figure who will now oversee the brand’s coffee, confectionery, and food factories across the British Isles, aligning with current food manufacturing trends.
In his own words, Krohn remarked: “It’s a pleasure to move into the role of head of technical and production for Nestlé in the UK and Ireland. Safety and quality are paramount to all that we do at Nestlé, and I will continue to put this at the heart of the market.”
Vigano, who began his Nestlé journey in Italy in 2012, now assumes Simmons’s prior role, guiding the brand’s dedicated business-to-business (B2B) foodservice division, which is pivotal in food distribution trends.
“It’s a pleasure and honour to lead Nestlé Professional at such an exciting time,” Vigano shared. “As we enter the new year, I’m energised by the opportunities ahead and committed to supporting our customers across hospitality and foodservice. Together, we’ll continue delivering exceptional products and services, driven by our focus on excellence, sustainability, and innovation.”

