Ventura Foods has promoted John Buckles to the newly-created role of chief operating officer with effect from 1 June.

Buckles, who has been with the California-based manufacturer of sauces, spreads and dressings for six years, is currently executive vice-president of sales and marketing.

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Buckles has previously held management and marketing roles at Coca-Cola, PepsiCo and Kellog.

Ventura president and CEO Chris Furman said: “As chief operating officer, John will further accelerate our ability to grow, strengthen and diversify. Given the significant growth we’ve already experienced and pace at which we plan for it to continue, it’s never been more important to our organisation to have focus, alignment and collaboration at every level.”

Last year, Ventura acquired the sauces and condiments business of Canadian manufacturer Wing’s Foods for an undisclosed sum. The company also announced plans to acquire a Cargill business that supplies products from mayonnaise to tartar sauce to foodservice operators in the country. 

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