He has worked for the company for 13 years in a number of executive roles and will reach six years of service as CEO in January 2023.
Bega Cheese executive chair Barry Irvin said Mr van Heerwaarden had been a “wonderful CEO” and had led the organisation through a period of great change and development.
"Paul remains committed to the company and as always is keen to ensure the best outcomes for the business and that the transition to a new CEO is well planned and continues the stable leadership which has always been a key element in the success of the company,” Mr Irvin said.
“While Paul’s achievements are many, it would be appropriate to highlight the key role he has played in the acquisition of the Mondelez Grocery Business in Australia (bringing home Vegemite), the re-shaping of our dairy nutritionals business through the execution of the various Reckitt’s transactions, the acquisition of Koroit, the acquisition of Lion Dairy and Drinks and his leadership of the diversity and inclusion programs of the combined group.”
Mr Irvin said a feature of Mr van Heerwaarden’s leadership was his willingness to give opportunity to others and his capacity to develop people.
“Paul is always keen to recognise the capacity and capabilities of individuals and his team,” Mr Irvin said.
“Earlier this year, we announced that Pete Findlay had been appointed chief operating officer of the company and the board is now pleased to announce that Pete will transition to CEO with Paul’s support in the coming months.”
Mr Findlay joined the company in 2019 as chief financial officer and has more than 25 years’ experience in professional services and senior finance and operational roles in private and publicly owned businesses.
He has held several senior CFO roles in a variety of industries including manufacturing, retail, information technology and distribution.
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