Premium food brand Bart Ingredients has promoted chief commercial officer Adam Sims to CEO.
Sims takes over from David Collard, who is stepping down at the end of March after 12 years in the top seat.
Collard will become chairman as he retires from the executive world. He oversaw Bart Ingredients’ sale to European spice giant Fuchs Gruppe in 2017, as well as its boom during the pandemic, which resulted in it relocating to a 167,000 sq ft site in Severn Beach after outgrowing its former Bedminster factory in 2022.
More recently, he added Waitrose to its list of stockists, joining the likes Morrisons, Ocado and Booths.
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Collard said: “It has been a privilege to lead the business and work with so many amazing people under the ownerships of both Langholm Capital and now the Fuchs Gruppe. This is an exciting time for the business.
“As we enter 2024, the team is well-placed to drive the next phase of growth. On a personal note, I would like to thank everyone that I have worked with for the support shown to me and Bart over the years.”
Sims, who had assumed the role of deputy CEO in the interim transitionary period, has been at the Bristol-based herbs, spices and ingredients firm for nine years, holding positions in business development, finance and category insight.
He said: “It’s an absolute honour to be the incoming CEO of this extraordinary company. Stepping into this position comes with a profound sense of responsibility.
“However, with the support of an incredible team and the capabilities within the Fuchs Gruppe, I am excited about the future ahead.”
Alongside Collard, sales director Patrick Pace is also due to retire from Bart Ingredients following a stint of 11 years at the business.
