FDBusiness.com

Pete Ward has stepped down from his position as chief executive of Young’s Seafood International Holdings’ UK business operations. Pete Ward worked at Young’s for 38 years and has spent more than 24 years in board level positions, most recently as chief executive of Young’s Seafood.

This decision follows the completion of a strategic review of Young’s, led by Pete Ward, which has focused the business 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 Ward now wishes to pursue opportunities outside of Young’s to promote the UK seafood industry as a whole.

Bill Showalter, currently chief executive of the parent company Young’s Seafood International Holdings, will assume the responsibilities of chief executive of the operating company, Young’s Seafood, in addition to his existing duties until a new chief executive is announced. Bill Showalter has over 28 years’ experience of working in the seafood, food and consumer-facing industries. Bill Showalter joined Young’s in 2013 and was appointed chief executive of Young’s Seafood International Holdings in January 2016.

Young’s Seafood is the leading seafood manufacturer in the UK, sourcing over 30 species from five continents. With a turnover of £600 million, and 12 manufacturing sites across the UK, the company provides a broad portfolio of chilled and frozen fish to Britain’s major retailers, restaurants and food service businesses.