Sales director Christian Boulter is set to become managing director of Ritter Sport UK & Ireland after Benedict Daniels steps down, concluding more than ten years leading the company’s regional operations.
The appointment comes as the family-owned chocolate manufacturer builds on a prolonged period of expansion in Britain. The business is also responding to shifting food and beverage industry trends, including changing purchasing habits, evolving food and drink consumer trends and growing demand for food and drink sustainability.
Daniels joined Ritter Sport in 2014 and played a central role in developing the UK operation from a relatively small business into one of the group’s most successful international markets. Before joining the chocolate manufacturer, he held senior positions with major food companies including Ferrero, Kettle Foods and Greencore.
Explaining his departure, Daniels said: “After more than a decade leading Ritter Sport UK & Ireland, I’ve taken the decision to move on and begin a new chapter in my career.
“I leave knowing the business is in a strong position. Christian is an outstanding leader who understands our consumers, customers, ambitions and our culture. I couldn’t think of a better person to lead the next phase of Ritter Sport’s growth, and I wish him and the whole team every success.”
The leadership change follows Boulter’s rapid progression since joining Ritter Sport last year. The company said he has “quickly established himself” as an important part of its UK leadership group.
Working closely with Daniels, Boulter contributed to the company’s commercial planning, developed relationships with leading retail customers and supported major retail successes, marketing campaigns and distribution expansion. His responsibilities have included areas closely linked to food manufacturing trends, food processing technology and food distribution trends, as manufacturers and retailers adapt to a more competitive market.
Ritter Sport has become the fastest-growing block chocolate brand in the UK, with retail sales exceeding £25m and listings secured with every major retailer. Its next phase of development will also be shaped by food and drink industry innovation, food and drink packaging developments, food and drink marketing priorities and changing food and drink regulations.
Boulter said: “It is a real privilege to take on the role of managing director at such a pivotal time for the business. Benedict leaves behind an outstanding team, strong customer relationships, and a business with genuine momentum.
“Consumers are buying chocolate differently today. They may be buying less often, but they’re expecting more from every purchase. That’s why we’ll continue investing in quality, innovation and distribution, helping even more consumers discover Ritter Sport while delivering sustainable growth for our retail partners.”
He added: “I’d also like to thank Ben personally for everything he has done for the business. The foundations he has built over the past decade give us an incredibly strong platform for the future, and I’m very much looking forward to leading the next chapter of Ritter Sport’s growth across the UK and Ireland.”
