Village Gourmet, a prominent US-based producer in the food manufacturing sector, has appointed Jim Leighton as its new CEO.
Effective June 9, Leighton succeeds David Kemp, who has held the CEO position since January 2020. Kemp will remain on the board of directors and continue his role as a partner in the business.
In a statement released on June 24, Village Gourmet highlighted Leighton’s extensive experience—over three decades—in “growing” food and consumer packaged goods companies through “operational excellence, brand innovation, and market expansion.”
Leighton’s qualifications include senior executive roles at reputable firms such as Perdue Farms, Boulder Brands, Ingham’s Group, and Conagra Foods.
Kemp emphasized, “Leighton’s proven ability to lead purpose-driven food companies and deliver results makes him the ideal leader for Village Gourmet as we enter our next phase of growth.”
Leighton acknowledged Kemp’s significant contributions: “bringing together and scaling five authentic heritage brands to shape what we now proudly know as Village Gourmet.”
Backed by private equity, Village Gourmet owns notable brands including Three Little Pigs, Fabrique Délices, Longhini Sausage, Uncle Charley’s Sausage Co., and Esposito’s Finest Quality Sausage.
Since its inception in 2015, Village Gourmet has expanded its portfolio, beginning with the acquisition of Three Little Pigs.
In August 2021, Quad-C Management, a middle-market private equity firm, acquired a majority stake in the company. Over the next five years, Village Gourmet completed four additional acquisitions, each contributing a new specialty heritage brand to its portfolio.
Under Leighton’s leadership, the company aims to explore “new growth opportunities” further.
Upon his appointment, Leighton stated, “I am honoured to join a company with such strong brands and dedicated people. Village Gourmet has a unique place in the market, and I look forward to working with the team to continue delivering excellence for our customers and partners.”