Former United Biscuits boss takes reins at Tangerine
TANGERINE Confectionery, the sweet and popcorn maker based in Blackpool with a site in Liverpool too, has appointed a new chief executive.
The new man at the helm is a familiar face – Benoit Testard – who joined the private-equity backed business as a non-executive director in October.
He will take up his new role in early March, and in the interim, group chairman Steven Joseph will take the reins.
Mr Testard joined United Biscuits (UB) in 1999 as MD of its French business, and then took charge of its Northern European operation in 2001, went on to become MD of its UK business in 2004. He was promoted to CEO of the UB Group in 2011.
Steven Joseph, chairman of Tangerine, said: “Benoit Testard is an outstanding appointment for Tangerine. He brings deep experience in FMCG in the UK and Continental Europe and a track record of great success.”
Mr Testard, said: “Having been introduced to the world of Tangerine as a non-executive Director, I am thrilled to become chief executive. Tangerine has a powerful position in the confectionery sector and owns some of its best-known brands. I look forward to working with the 1,500 strong team here to grow the company further.”
Tangerine Confectionery is manufacturer of the UK’s number one popcorn brand Butterkist and produces the Wham bar, Sherbet Fountain, Dip Dab and Henry Goode’s soft eating liquorice, all under the Candyland brand.
In 2011, Blackstone, purchased a majority stake in Tangerine Confectionery, alongside the management team.
