After a comprehensive and competitive international search process following the departure of Pete Ward, Young’s Seafood has announced that Bill Showalter will continue as its ongoing chief executive. The Grimsby, England-headquartered operation, which has roots dating back to 1805, is a major producer of value-added frozen fish and seafood products distributed throughout the United Kingdom and elsewhere.
Showalter took command as interim chief executive of the company in July of 2016, while remaining at the helm as chief executive officer and chief financial officer of Young’s Seafood International Holdings. It is intended that his responsibilities within the parent company and the operating company will be consolidated together into one role, under a streamlined corporate structure.
With extensive UK and international experience, Showalter has worked in the seafood, food and consumer-facing industries for 29 years. He joined Young’s in 2013 and was appointed ceo of Young’s Seafood International Holdings in January of 2016. Since then he has been a key player in driving strategic plans, which focus on cost management, relationships with retailer customers, brand strengthening, diversification, international business development, exports and foodservice.
Showalter led the company’s proactive response to the challenging raw material inflation and foreign exchange dynamics following the United Kingdom’s Brexit vote to leave the European Union. This strategy, coupled with the strength of the brand, has enabled Young’s to retain its industry leading market share position in Britain.
“We are making significant progress executing our strategic plan in challenging market conditions, and will continue to be dynamic and proactive in our response to change,” said the chief executive.
Dale Morrison, chairman of Young’s parent company, commented: “We are delighted that Bill will continue to lead Young’s Seafood Limited on a permanent basis. His deep industry experience coupled with strong relationships across all our stakeholders provides a strong and stable platform for us to achieve our business objectives.”
