Fiid has appointed Nix & Kix co-founder Julia Kessler as CEO to spearhead the next phase of growth at the Irish plant-based convenience brand.
Kessler stepped into the role as Fiid built momentum in the UK and Irish markets, the business said.
She succeeds founder Shane Ryan, who has stepped back from the day-to-day running of the business while continuing to support Fiid as a board member. The transition also sees Catherine Lambe appointed as chair.
Lambe has spent 20 years at Musgrave, the Irish retailer, wholesaler and foodservice business and is a senior business leader with expertise in delivering commercial strategy, governance and business transformation, Fiid added.
Fiid range of microwavable pouches are currently stocked by Booths, Ocado and Amazon in the UK, alongside SuperValu, Dunnes Stores and Spar in Ireland. Distribution is handled by Wholefoods Ireland in Ireland, and by CN Foods and Epicurium in the UK.
The brand’s range of ambient ready meals are marketed as protein and fibre-rich and made using natural ingredients.
“Fiid has always stood for doing things differently – creating quick, nourishing meals without compromise,” Kessler said. “I’m honoured to build on the incredible foundations laid by Shane and to work alongside Catherine and the board to bring Fiid to even more people looking for food that’s as good for them as it is convenient.”
Fiid is backed by Irish VC firm The Redesdale Food Fund, which has invested almost €1m in the business since getting involved in mid-2023.
John Stapleton, a founding partner at Redesdale and the co-founder of New Covent Garden Soup Co and Little Dish, added: “At Redesdale, we are attracted to businesses with a clear purpose, strong consumer relevance and an ambitious management team to implement strongly.
“Fiid embodies all three.”
He said: “With Julia as a seasoned and competent CEO, and Catherine providing her depth of commercial and governance experience as chair, Fiid is well positioned for its next phase of growth.
“Consumers are searching for convenient, nutritious and minimally processed meal solutions. Fiid is ready to lead in this category, and The Redesdale Fund is committed to ensuring its success.”
Fiid was founded in Dublin in 2018 and has now sold millions of meals worldwide, continuing to expand its presence across retail and foodservice.
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