Waitrose fresh buyer Paul Walker is expanding his remit to include sourcing of meat, poultry, fish, frozen food and dairy.
The move comes as Heather Jenkins, who previously had buying responsibility for these areas, leaves the business after 37 years.
Until now, Walker has focused on fruit, vegetables, meal solutions, bakery and food to go.
From next week onwards, he will head up all fresh buying and assume responsibility for agricultural strategy.
Walker has spent 30 years at Waitrose, having joined the business in a store management role.
He went on to specialise in buying and assumed his current role as director of fresh buying in 2009. His job title will remain the same following the expansion of his remit.
“I am excited to take on this role and, backed by a fantastic team here at Waitrose, looking forward to working with our suppliers, farmers and others,” Walker said.
Walker will report to commercial director Rupert Thomas, who said he was “exactly the right person to develop our agricultural strategy and take it forward”.
Thomas also praised Jenkins for her work in the role.
“Heather has made an enormous contribution to Waitrose, building fantastic relationships with the farming community and helping us to lead the grocery sector in this area.”
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