Associated British Foods (ABF) has announced the appointment of Joana Edwards as its group chief financial officer. This move aligns with ABF’s commitment to leadership that drives innovation in the food and beverage industry.
Edwards joined ABF as group financial controller in 2020. Since March 2025, she has been serving as group interim finance director, following Eoin Tonge’s elevation to interim CEO. Her extensive background in financial management positions her well to navigate ongoing trends in food manufacturing and processing technology.
With over 30 years of global financial experience, Edwards previously held the role of group financial controller at the renowned French cosmetics company L’Oréal. Additionally, she has significant experience in senior financial positions at The Body Shop, enhancing her insight into food and drink marketing and consumer trends.
Upon her appointment, Edwards stated: “I am thrilled to be appointed chief financial officer. During my time at ABF, I have worked closely with our teams across the business and have seen first-hand the strength of our portfolio, the resilience of our model and the depth of talent we have across the organisation.”
“I will focus on disciplined capital allocation, cost management, and cash generation while ensuring we invest behind the areas of greatest strategic potential. I look forward to collaborating with the Board and leadership team to deliver sustainable, long-term growth and attractive returns for our shareholders.”
Effective immediately, her promotion also positions her as an executive director on the ABF board—underscoring the company’s dedication to food and drink sustainability.
In a related announcement, Eoin Tonge has been confirmed as Primark’s new permanent chief executive. He stepped into the interim role following the resignation of Paul Marchant amid allegations of misconduct.
Marchant departed Primark after serving since July 2009, concluding an investigation into inappropriate behavior. Tonge, who joined ABF in February 2023, had been serving as group finance director since April 2023 before his interim CEO appointment.
Prior to joining ABF, Tonge held the CFO position at Greencore and also served in a dual role as chief financial officer and chief strategy officer at Marks & Spencer. This diverse experience equips him to address food distribution trends effectively.
“Following a comprehensive search process, I am delighted to confirm Eoin as chief executive of Primark. Over the past year, he has demonstrated the leadership, judgement, and consumer insight needed to enable Primark to capture the significant opportunities ahead,” said George Weston, ABF CEO.
