pete ward youngs ceo

Young’s Seafood boss Pete Ward has stepped down from his position with immediate effect.

Ward became CEO of Young’s UK business in January 2015, and has worked for the processor for 38 years, with 24 years spent in various board level positions.

He will be replaced on a temporary basis by Bill Showalter, the CEO of parent company Young’s Seafood International Holdings.

Ward’s decision to stand down followed the completion of a strategic review of the business - which he led - that focused the supplier on driving top-line growth through new commercial strategies, innovation, and a greater emphasis on foodservice and exports.

“Having put the plan into action, championed the company’s virtual integration strategy and established a strengthened and expanded operating board capable of delivering the company’s new strategy, Pete now wishes to pursue opportunities outside Young’s to promote the UK seafood industry as a whole,” the company said in a statement.

“The company is the number one UK seafood processor, and Pete’s vision and drive have been invaluable in achieving this success,” said Showalter, who thanked Ward for his contribution.

“Our focus continues to be on inspiring people to love fish now and for generations to come, and on providing great service to our customers and consumers,” he added.

“Young’s has been a huge part of my life for the past 38 years,” said Ward. “My commitment to the seafood industry, and the local communities in which we are located, continues to be important to me and I will now be able to dedicate more of my time to these priorities.”

Young’s Seafood International Holdings was spun out of former parent Findus Group last year when it was acquired by Nomad Holdings.