The Compleat Food Group appoints first chief people officer

Wall’s Pastry and Pork Farms owner The Compleat Food Group is looking to further develop its work culture with the appointment of its first ever chief people officer.

Hayley Kingdom is joining the business from Burton’s Biscuits where she was group human resources director and led the people strategy for the group, focusing on organisational change, talent acquisition and retention, culture and engagement.

The Compleat Food Group said she brings more than 15 years’ experience in HR leadership roles across the FMCG industry, including several years in senior HR roles at Tesco.

The new role is described as a major investment in people by The Compleat Food Group, which was formed in October 2021 from the merger of Addo Food Group and Winterbotham Darby. The business acquired Wrights Food Group in December 2021, and is home to brands including is home to brands including Pork Farms, Wall’s Pastry, Squeaky Bean, Unearthed and Vadasz.

The company said Kingdom is passionate about building a positive, collaborative culture and further enhancing the culture across the company’s 10 sites and 3,500 employees.

“The Compleat Food Group has such a fascinating range of brands and great products and a diverse mix of people across lots of locations,” said Kingdom. “I am excited to join the business at such a key time in the company’s growth and look forward to meeting all of our great people across the group.”

She added that creating an environment where everybody knows their purpose and can celebrate individual and team success is key.

The Compleat Food Group CEO Nick Field, who was also previously at Burton’s Biscuits, said the company’s goal is to become the UK’s number one chilled prepared food company.

“Our people are our greatest asset, and we want to foster an environment where everyone feels supported and passionate about working as one team, with all our people invited to share in the pride and success of our company together.

“Hayley’s passion for creating great culture will be integral as we take the next steps on our journey.”