TasFoods, the Australian poultry, cheese, and pet-food business, is set to undergo an executive reshuffle as CEO Scott Hadley announced his resignation, to pursue new career opportunities. Starting 29 March, the Launceston, Tasmania-based company will welcome a new CEO, Josh Fletcher, who currently serves as the company’s finance chief. This announcement comes months after Hadley took over the reins in October 2021, succeeding the former CEO of Asahi Group Holdings.
Under Hadley’s leadership, TasFoods recently expanded its poultry business with the acquisition of Tasmania’s Redbank Poultry, following the sale of Betta Milk and Meander Valley Dairy brands to Bega Group. The company’s Pyengana Dairy brand range will continue to be part of its portfolio, amidst its recent strategic moves in the food and beverage industry.
Furthermore, the company’s financial controller, Leanne Pritchard, will assume the role of CFO as part of the management changes at TasFoods. Despite these changes, the company still reported a loss for the first half of the fiscal year to 30 June, but with an increase in revenue.
In line with its strategic plan to reduce the number of brands and SKUs, TasFoods also sold its Shima Wasabi spices unit and ventured into the pet-food category with the Australia launch of the Isle & Sky brand.”
Hadley expressed confidence in the company’s future, stating, ‘The changes we have made as a group since October 2021 have been significant and could not have been achieved without an all-of-company approach. With much of the restructure completed and strong foundations now in place, I feel now is the right time for the company, and me personally, to implement a management change that will enable new leadership to take the business forward.’
The incoming CEO, Josh Fletcher, is optimistic about leading the company forward, stating, ‘I am looking forward to building on the solid foundation and financial position that exists today by working closely with the team to deliver exceptional operational performance and further develop our brands to drive improved returns for our company and our shareholders.’
With the food and drink consumer trends constantly evolving, TasFoods is positioning itself for growth and success in the competitive food and beverage industry. Despite the changes, TasFoods’ shares closed unchanged at 0.026 Australian cents today.
