Plant-based food producer Fenn Foods has appointed experienced multinational FMCG executive Tony Rowlinson as its new CEO.
Fenn Foods makes and markets Veef-branded alt-beef and alt-chicken products, sold through Coles, Woolworths and other grocery retailers as well as through foodservice channels.
Rowlinson is a consumer goods specialist and entrepreneur with an extensive background in FMCG and marketing communications. He has held senior positions in multinational corporations including Coca Cola Company, SCA/ Carter Holt Harvey and Simplot where he was responsible for acquisitions, mergers and key business operations.
He was also responsible for the establishment of the Meals Centre for Excellence for both chilled and frozen ready meals for some of Australia’s popular brands such as Leggo’s, Edgell, Lean Cuisine and others.
Nicholas Simms, executive chairman at Fenn Foods, said Rowlinson would bring an outstanding reputation for creating strong company cultures and building effective teams to the plant-based business.
“Tony has a proven record in growing profitable businesses through sound direction, the implementation of ‘best in class’ manufacturing processes, marketing excellence and international expansion. We are delighted he has joined the Fenn Foods team, as we continue on our journey of rapid growth, driven by increased demand for our plant-based products,” he added.
Rowlinson said the plant-based foods market in Australia is in its infancy and – based on global trends – will become a billion-dollar market in the very near future.
“There are tremendous growth opportunities in delivering ongoing innovation and I am excited at the prospect of building on Fenn Foods’ culinary reputation in establishing the company as a leading player in this market,” he said.
In February, the company secured investment from leading fund manager Bombara Group.
Image: Fenn Foods CEO, Tony Rowlinson with chairman Nicholas Simms.
