#Canada #Mississauga #Maple Leaf Foods #Curtis Frank #Canadian Protein

Maple Leaf Foods' Strategic Organizational Revamp

Maple Leaf Foods Inc., a prominent name in the Canadian protein industry, has recently announced a series of significant changes aimed at enhancing its competitive positioning. As part of a comprehensive restructuring strategy, the company is aligning its organizational framework with its refreshed strategic blueprint.

A Focus on Strategic Growth

On January 30, 2025, the company's leadership revealed that these changes come in the wake of its consolidation of meat and plant protein operations. This move, initiated last year, seeks to optimize resources and deliver maximum value to customers. Curtis Frank, the President and CEO of Maple Leaf Foods, emphasized the company's commitment to leveraging its robust brand portfolio and expanding geographical reach while maintaining sustainability as a core value.

Frank stated, "Our goal is to streamline operations by elevating our focus on cost reduction and operational excellence. We believe these changes will set the stage for a transformative year in 2025."

Leadership Changes

As part of this restructuring, Maple Leaf Foods is making strategic appointments within its Senior Leadership Team:

• - Mike Yang has been appointed as the Chief Supply Chain Officer, effective February 3, 2025. Yang brings a wealth of experience from previous roles at Kruger Products and Kimberly Clark Corporation, particularly in manufacturing transformation and modernization initiatives.

• - Josh Kuehnbaum, who has been with the company for over 25 years, has taken on the role of Senior Vice President of Customer Business Development. His new responsibilities include overseeing all Canadian Retail and Foodservice sales, consolidating these functions for enhanced efficiency.

• - Ryan Walker, a veteran leader within the company, now serves as the SVP of Poultry, taking the reins from Ben Brooks, who will retire in May 2025 after two decades with the company. Walker's extensive background in operations and business development will guide the poultry sector into a new era.

A Transition with Gratitude

In response to these leadership changes, Curtis Frank expressed deep appreciation for the outgoing executives, Iain Stewart and Ben Brooks, for their dedication and significant contributions over the years. He emphasized the importance of a smooth transition, assuring stakeholders that the incoming leadership is well-equipped to drive the company forward.

Looking Ahead

With the groundwork laid for a robust 2025, Maple Leaf Foods aims to bolster its initiatives under the 'Fuel for Growth' strategy. This approach focuses on streamlining the leadership structure, establishing clear accountability measures, and sharpening the company's competitive edge.

As a leading protein producer in Canada, Maple Leaf Foods advocates for sustainable practices, producing well-known brands such as Maple Leaf®, Schneiders®, and LightLife®. The company currently employs around 13,500 individuals and operates primarily in Canada, the United States, and parts of Asia, with its headquarters located in Mississauga, Ontario.

Conclusion

With these strategic changes, Maple Leaf Foods is not only poised for greater operational excellence but is also setting the stage for profitable growth and enhanced consumer value. The company’s commitment to quality and sustainability remains steadfast, as it navigates the evolving landscape of consumer preferences and market demands.

About Maple Leaf Foods Inc.

Maple Leaf Foods is at the forefront of responsibly producing food products across a diverse portfolio, including popular protein brands and plant-based options. As it enters a new chapter with renewed leadership and strategic focus, the company is dedicated to fulfilling its mission of providing both quality and sustainability in every product.

For stakeholders and consumers alike, Maple Leaf Foods' ongoing transformation is an exciting development, indicating a future full of potential and innovation.