This decision follows the completion of a strategic review of Young’s, led by Pete Ward, which has focussed 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 now wishes to pursue opportunities outside of Young’s to promote the UK seafood industry as a whole.
Mr Ward said: “Young’s has been a huge part of my life for the past 38 years. My commitment to the seafood industry, and the local communities in which we are located, continues to be important to me and I will now be able to dedicate more of my time to these priorities.”
Bill Showalter, currently CEO of the parent company Young’s Seafood International Holdings, will assume the responsibilities of Chief Executive of the operating company, Young’s Seafood Limited, 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 joined Young’s in 2013 and was appointed CEO of Young’s Seafood International Holdings in January 2016.
Bill Showalter said: “I’d like to thank Pete for his contribution to Young’s Seafood Limited. Under his leadership, we have been able to build a strong business, develop a great leadership team, establish Young’s Virtual Integration strategy and complete the Company’s Strategic Review. The company is the number one UK seafood processor, and Pete’s vision and drive have been invaluable in achieving this success. Our focus continues to be on inspiring people to love fish now and for generations to come, and on providing great service to our customers and consumers.”
