Deborah Bolton has been named as Addo Food Group’s new chief executive officer.

Bolton, previously joint chief operating officer at the chilled savoury pastry producer, will step into the role immediately. She takes over from Chris Peters, who will continue to be actively involved in the company, serving in a non-executive role while handing over the day-to-day operations.

Bolton has helped Addo grow from strength to strength and her constant focus on the needs of the group has “played a central role in driving significant improvements and increasing turnover”.

The company employs more than 2,500 staff across its six UK sites producing a range of chilled savoury pastry products under brands including Wall’s, Millers Bakery and Pork Farms.

“In any corporation, there comes a time when you need to reflect on your current structures and ways of working in order to propel the business going forward. I am honoured to be announcing Deborah Bolton as the new CEO of the Addo Food Group and wish her huge success in her role,” said Peters.

Bolton added that it would be a “huge privilege” to lead Addo Food Group.

“Our focus will remain on being category leaders and serving our customers, suppliers, staff and stakeholders to continue to develop long-term growth,” she said. “I am proud to be leading a company that encourages progression and ambition amongst its employees and challenges industry standards with successful female-led teams. I’d also like to extend my gratitude to Chris for his remarkable leadership and look forward to working closely with him during this transition.”