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The Compleat Food Group has appointed Steve Challouma as its first chief growth officer and Jo Smith as chief product officer, as the UK food manufacturer looks to strengthen its growth and innovation capabilities.

Challouma has joined the business from Nomad Foods, where he most recently served as chief marketing officer. In his new role, he will be responsible for The Compleat Food Group’s category-led growth strategy, bringing together group strategy and execution, category vision and consumer insights.

During his time at Nomad Foods, Challouma was responsible for commercial strategy and category performance across 22 international markets. He also led a portfolio of brands including Birds Eye, Goodfella’s, Aunt Bessie’s and Findus.

Prior to becoming chief marketing officer, Challouma was general manager of Birds Eye UK and Ireland, where he led the business through a period of transformation and growth.

Meanwhile, Smith will join The Compleat Food Group later this month as chief product officer, taking responsibility for product development and innovation across the business.

Smith joins from Hilton Foods Group, where she was NPD and innovation director. She brings experience in chilled private-label food manufacturing, customer partnerships and category development.

Before joining Hilton Foods, Smith led product development for Greencore’s Food to Go business.

The appointments come as The Compleat Food Group continues to expand following its formation in 2021. The company now employs more than 6,800 people across 20 sites and generates annual revenues of almost £1.5bn.

Nick Reade, UK managing director at The Compleat Food Group, said: “Steve brings great experience and a proven track record in creating value for customers and engaging consumers, which combined with Jo’s deep experience in innovation and product leadership, will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our offering and deliver long-term growth."

The Compleat Food Group’s portfolio includes brands such as Wall’s Pastry, Pork Farms, Wrights, The Real Yorkshire Pudding Co., unearthed, Vadasz, Squeaky Bean, Palace Culture, Julienne Bruno and Harvey & Brockless.

Alongside its branded portfolio, the company supplies own-label pastry, sweet bakery, party food, olives and antipasti, added-value egg products, continental meats, dips and sauces and plant-based food to retailers and foodservice customers.

Challouma has now taken up his new position, while Smith is due to start later in October.