First Milk welcomes Mahoney as he joins from Samworth Brothers, a prominent UK food manufacturer, where he held the position of Group CEO for two years.
With over 30 years of experience spanning the food and beverage industry trends, as well as technology sectors, Mahoney is well-equipped for his new role. Before his tenure at Samworth Brothers, he served as CCO and then CEO of Brakes UK, a leading foodservice distributor. His career began in FMCG and branded goods, progressing to senior commercial and business development roles in technology firms, including Sage and LexisNexis.
He joins the First Milk board during a pivotal period, as the co-operative aims to expand and enhance value in its milk supply chain, dairy product manufacturing, and ingredients expertise.
His appointment received approval from the co-operative’s Board of Directors and Member Council, pending ratification by First Milk’s members at the AGM scheduled for November 3, 2025.
“His [Mahoney] understanding of the opportunities for UK food and farming businesses at home and abroad, together with the challenges that the UK farming and food sectors are facing into is first class. When you back this up with his broader experience of leading in different sectors, business models and cultures it makes him a great fit for the future development of our co-operative,” commented Mike Smith.
“On behalf of our members and the Board of Directors, I would like to thank Chris Thomas for his commitment and service. During Chris’s chairmanship, we have successfully created value for our members and customers, expanded capabilities through the acquisition of BV Dairy, and strengthened our position in regenerative farming. Now, we are excited to build upon these solid foundations with the energy and expertise that Hugo will bring to First Milk and its members.”
Mahoney shared his enthusiasm regarding his appointment: “I am delighted to be joining the board of First Milk, a vibrant, progressive co-operative with strong customer relationships owned by farming families across Britain.”
“Nutritious, tasty dairy products are an essential part of many people’s diets, and First Milk is contributing significantly to building a high-quality, resilient, and sustainable UK dairy supply chain with the farming community at its heart.”
“I look forward to collaborating with my new colleagues on behalf of our members to further advance this important work into the future.”
The selection process for the new chairperson was overseen by First Milk’s Board Nominations Committee, chaired by non-executive director Michael Fletcher. The committee was supported by both the board of directors and the member council.
First Milk board members serve a two-year term, with opportunities for re-appointment, capped at a maximum of three terms.
