FDBusiness.com

Premier Foods has appointment of Richard Hodgson as a non-executive director with immediate effect. Richard Hodgson has been chief executive of Pizza Express since 2013, during which time he successfully led the sale and separation of the business and creation of a new growth strategy.

Richard Hodgson has extensive experience in modern food retailing gained through senior roles with Asda, Waitrose and Morrisons spanning 16 years. During his 10-year tenure at Asda he rose to become marketing & own brand director and was one of the key architects of Asda’s successful ‘Every Day Low Prices’ strategy.

He joined Waitrose in 2006 as commercial director where he consistently grew sales, market share and margins and was responsible for the launch of the ‘Essential Waitrose’ concept as well as negotiating several high profile partnerships including the exclusive rights to the Duchy Originals brand. Richard Hodgson joined Morrisons in 2010 in the newly created role of commercial director, combining trading and marketing where he helped to grow profits significantly in his first year.

David Beever, chairman of Premier Foods, comments: “I’m thrilled that Richard will be joining the Premier Foods Board. His extensive experience of modern food retailing will be invaluable in helping the company to navigate today’s rapidly changing marketplace. We very much look forward to his contribution and welcome him to the board.”

Richard Hodgson says: “Premier Foods has some of the best food brands around with many growth opportunities. I’m very excited by the prospect of helping the company continue its turnaround and I look forward to working with the board to deliver its vision and strategy.”