Greencore Group is simplifying its management structure following the disposal of its US business.

The company has announced that chief operating officer Peter Haden is to step down as an executive director at the end of this year and will leave the group next April.

This follows simplification of the management structure, headed by CEO Patrick Coveney, after Greencore sold its US operations to an affiliate of Hearthside Food Solutions.

Haden joined Greencore in 2015 as chief development officer and also held the role of chief executive officer of Greencore’s UK division. Prior to joining Greencore, Haden was a brand manager with Procter & Gamble before becoming a partner at McKinsey & Co.

“Peter has made an enormous contribution to Greencore during his five years with us,” said Coveney.

“He brought strategic clarity, functional excellence, and a results-driven focus to the group. He did all that while also being driven, collaborative, and great fun to work with. I wish him the very best in his future career.”

Greencore chairman Gary Kennedy said the board appreciated the contribution Haden had made to the development and performance of the company over the past five years.

“He is an outstanding executive. He will stay in role with his current responsibilities until the end of December and work closely with Patrick to enable the group to transition seamlessly to the new structure thereafter.

“Patrick will then assume responsibility for the principal management responsibilities currently held by Peter.”

Greencore has reported its full-year results this week.