Ex-Nomad Foods boss joins Compleat Food Group as chief growth officer

The Compleat Food Group has appointed former Nomad Foods marketing boss Steve Challouma as its first chief growth officer.

Challouma spent 19 years at Nomad Foods, culminating as chief marketing officer. In the role, he was responsible for commercial strategy and category performance across brands including Birds Eye, Goodfella’s, Aunt Bessie’s and Findus.

He also spent three years as general manager of Birds Eye UK and Ireland.

“What immediately attracted me to The Compleat Food Group was the breadth of its portfolio and the strength of its category positions,” said Challouma. 

“From plant-based foods and Mediterranean deli products to savoury pastry, dips, soups and sauces, the business has built an impressive combination of category-leading own-label capabilities and leading brands. I’m excited to build on that momentum and help shape the next phase of the Group’s journey.”

The group has also appointed Jo Smith as chief product officer. Joining the business later this month, Smith will lead product development and innovation across the group.

Smith joins from Hilton Foods Group, where she was NPD and innovation director. She brings “extensive experience in chilled private-label food manufacturing and a strong track record in customer partnerships and category development”. Previously, she led product development for Greencore’s food to go business.

Smith said: “The Compleat Food Group has established a strong reputation for quality, innovation and customer partnership across a diverse range of categories. I’m looking forward to joining at such an important stage and working with teams across the business to continue developing outstanding products that deliver for customers and consumers.”

Nick Reade, UK managing director at The Compleat Food Group, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Steve and Jo to The Compleat Food Group. Both bring outstanding experience from leading food businesses and a proven track record of building strong customer partnerships, delivering growth, and developing high-performing teams.”