Food brand Mars has appointed Tim Mooney as the general manager for the UK & Ireland, effective on 2 February.

Mooney brings over 25 years of experience in the UK retail sector, including senior roles at Sainsbury’s, Safeway, Danone and GSK.

He joined the FMCG giant’s global consumer team in 2020 and managed international consumer and category partnership initiatives, driving growth and collaboration.

“I am delighted to take on this role and look forward to working with our partners across the UK & Ireland to co-create value for our customers, consumers and the category,” he said.

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“Food & Nutrition is one of the most innovative parts of the Mars business with iconic household brands, and I’m incredibly excited to have the opportunity to build on the team’s success.”

In his new role as Mars Food & Nutrition GM for the UK & Ireland, Mooney will report directly to Hans Bakker, Mars Food & Nutrition regional general manager Europe.

Bakker said: “It is with great excitement that we welcome Tim to lead the Mars Food & Nutrition team in UK & Ireland. His extensive industry experience and strategic vision will be instrumental in driving the performance of our iconic brands to deliver category value through mutual and sustainable growth.”

Mooney will take over the business as it continues to build up and expand its top-performing brands, Ben’s Original and Dolmio.

He will succeed Nick Reade, who is departing from Mars after a decade of working at the business.