Award-winning ingredients specialists Beacon Foods has appointed a new managing director who has worked for the company for 19 years.
Financial director Jeff Davies has been promoted to lead the Brecon-based company, allowing co-founder and chairman Edward Gough to focus on the next phase business development and expansion.
Mr Davies, 57, joined the successful business in 2007 as company accountant, having started his career at chartered accountants W. J. James in Brecon.
During his Beacon Foods career, the company has grown its workforce from 100 to 180, boosted turnover from £8m to £25m and increased factory space, supported by a £6 million expansion programme and Welsh Government backing.
“The plan is to continue the success by growing the business and recruiting good quality, local staff,” said Mr Davies. “Supported by a very good team of directors, managers and skilled staff, we are developing the business by attracting new customers, increasing orders from existing customers and launching exciting, new products.
“There’s a lot of positivity within the business and the order book is looking good. We must thank the Welsh Government whose support has enabled the company to expand more quickly, recruit more staff and secure new orders.”
He will continue to oversee the finance team in his expanded role, with accounting technician Nicola Lewis taking on extra responsibility.
Married with three children, Mr Davies is a 15-handicap golfer at Cradoc Golf Club, a former Wales international pool player and follows the Wales football team at home and overseas.
“Jeff has been part of the Beacon Foods journey for 19 years and has become a hugely respected and valued member of the team,” said Mr Gough. “His deep understanding of our business, our people and our values makes him the ideal person to lead us into the future.
“Working closely with our management team and colleagues across the business, he will continue to build on the strong growth and success we have achieved in recent years, while keeping our focus firmly on quality, innovation and community. We are excited about what lies ahead for the business.”
Established in 1993, Beacon Foods is the UK’s leading specialist producer of garlic, ginger and chili puree, roasted and chargrilled vegetables and fruit ranges, relishes, chutneys, sauces, soups, confit and fruit compotes.
The ingredients go into thousands of products, including sandwiches, ready meals, pizzas, soups, drinks and desserts, which can be found on supermarket shelves, airlines, restaurant chains and coffee shops.
