Jon Jenkins, former chief executive of Kingsmill owner Allied Bakeries, has been named CEO of Müller Milk & Ingredients (MMI).

Owner Müller describes MMI as Britain’s largest producer of branded and private-label fresh milk, cream, butter and ingredients products. The business operates dairies and depots across the country.

Jenkins has replaced Patrick Müller, who will continue to run Müller’s home delivery business Milk & More. Müller has led a turnaround of MMI, with the company reporting it has secured profitable commercial contracts, adjusted capacity, aligned milk supply to demand and taken out unnecessary costs.

In his new role, Jenkins has been tasked with maintaining the turnaround momentum by securing the sustainable cost structures to ensure long-term success.

“A huge amount of work and very tough decisions have been, and continue to be, required,” said Müller, who is working with Jenkins for a two-month transition period. “But we are making very good progress and we now see a clear path towards a profitable and sustainable future.”

Jenkins has had a career of more than 30 years in the food manufacturing Industry, most recently at ABF-owned Allied Bakeries and Twinings. Before that, he worked at drinks business Halewood and spent 11 years with Mars.

Jenkins left Allied last year, after four years with the business, as part of a management shake-up.

His departure followed a difficult trading period for Allied that saw the business announce the loss of its largest own-label supply contract.

At the time, Allied stated that, under Jenkins’ leadership, the business had significantly reduced costs and improved product quality.

Jenkins said Patrick Müller left behind an excellent board and team

“I am looking forward to helping my colleagues at MMI to write the next chapter in its journey and, with their continuing commitment, I know that we can secure a profitable and successful future,” he added.