Bonduelle has appointed former Cargill executive Mary Thompson as the chief executive officer of its Bonduelle Fresh Americas division, effective from 8 October 2018.

Thompson joins the company following 25 years at Cargill, where she held several senior management positions and most recently served as the president and managing director of Cargill Meats Europe.

Bonduelle Fresh Americas was previously known as Ready Pac Foods, which Bonduelle acquired in 2017, and the division manufactures fresh produce and protein products under the company’s Ready Pac Foods, Bistro, Ready Snax, Cool Cuts brands.

The company says that Thompson’s appointment will aim to ensure that consumers from across the Americas have more ways to attain fresh vegetables and plant-based foods.

Thompson said: “It is truly an honour and privilege to join a successful business like Bonduelle Fresh Americas with its decades-long history of providing healthy, delicious and convenient meal solutions, all while demonstrating deep respect for the environment.

“My vision is that we continue to grow profitably, creating greater success for our customers and new opportunities for our employees and the communities in which we operate.”

Daniel Vielfaure, Bonduelle group deputy CEO added: “Mary’s appointment ushers in an exciting time for Bonduelle Fresh Americas. Her experience leading multi-billion dollar agribusinesses in North America and Europe make her an ideal leader for this business unit.

“We believe the global perspective and holistic approach she brings to the business will help drive Bonduelle Fresh Americas to greater growth and profitability in support of Bonduelle’s long-term ambition.”