US food group Louisiana Fish Fry has brought in experienced food industry man Michael Morse as its new chief executive officer a month after it was taken over by an affiliate of private-equity firm Peak Rock Capital.
The Baton Rouge business, which manufactures and supplies branded, Louisiana-inspired products including spices, seasonings, batters, sauces and rice mixes, has also promoted Brad Burkett to chief operating officer.
Morse, who takes over from Bill Pizzolato, joins Louisiana Fish Fry with more than two decades of experience across branded food and consumer industries, most recently as vice president of operations and marketing at Reily Foods Company. Before joining Reily, Morse spent nine years at McCormick & Co., including four years as general manager of its Zatarain’s division.
Burkett has been employed by Louisiana Fish Fry for more than 28 years, most recently serving as general manager.
Robert Strauss, a director at the company, said: “Michael is a highly-talented industry executive with extensive experience in the branded food industry. His demonstrated track record of leadership in growing consumer businesses makes him a perfect fit for Louisiana Fish Fry.
“Additionally, we’re excited to announce the promotion of Brad Burkett to chief operating officer. Brad has been a key part of the Louisiana Fish Fry team for over two decades, and we’re thrilled that he will be assuming a larger role in the business going forward.”
Morse said: “I look forward to leading the company through its next phase of growth as it continues to provide industry-leading quality and service to its retailers and consumers.”
Louisiana Fish Fry, set up 30 years ago by the Pizzolato family, sells to grocers, mass-market retailers and foodservice distributors.
