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Associated British Foods (ABF) has appointed Joana Edwards as group chief financial officer with immediate effect.

Edwards has served as the company’s interim finance director since 31 March 2025. She previously held the role of group financial controller after joining the company in 2020.

She brings more than 30 years of international finance experience across the UK, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, with a background in FMCG and consumer-facing industries, including retail.

Prior to joining ABF, Edwards was group financial controller at L’Oréal and held several senior finance director roles across the company’s regional and business units.

Edwards will join the ABF board as an executive director with immediate effect.

George Weston, chief executive of ABF, said: “Joana is a highly experienced financial leader who over the past twelve months has demonstrated a clear understanding of ABF’s business and operating model, rigour in the execution of her role and a passion for building high performing teams".

"Joana will continue to play a key role in delivering the group’s strategic priorities. Her experience will be invaluable as we continue to drive long-term, sustainable growth.”

Michael McLintock, chairman of ABF, commented: “The board and I have been very impressed by the capability and strength Joana has brought to the interim position. She has demonstrated both the judgement and the skillset required for the role of CFO. We are delighted to welcome her to the board.”

Commenting on her appointment, Edwards said she will focus on capital allocation, cost management and cash generation while supporting investment in areas with the strongest strategic potential.

Top image: © Associated British Foods