Heinz’s Jimenez is moved to Asia role

Heinz has moved its European president and chief executive Joe Jimenez to become executive vice-president, president and chief executive of Heinz Asia-Pacific and the rest of the world. The appointment comes just months after Jimenez completed the HP Foods acquisition.

Scott O’Hara, currently executive vice-president for Heinz Asia-Pacific and Canada, will replace Jimenez in Europe. O’Hara joined Heinz in January 2006 from Gillette, where he was senior vice-president for Europe.

Jimenez, who joined Heinz in 2002, has overseen the European business through a difficult time. It has sold off its underperforming European seafood division, which included the John West brand in the UK, to private equity house Lehman Brothers.

It also acquired HP Foods, which includes the Amoy and Lea & Perrins brands, although the &£470m deal led to a major strategic review in the UK, which included axing its &£25m advertising (MW July 20) and was referred to the Competition Commission. It has since been given the green light by the commission. The appointments are part of a reorganisation that aims to reposition the business and accelerate growth in Europe. Heinz chairman, president and chief executive William Johnson says: “This strong team will be the driving force behind the growth strategy to increase sales and profits in the categories of ketchup and sauces; meals and snacks; and infant nutrition.”