People: Vion Food Group appoints new CEO

Vion Food Group’s Supervisory Board will appoint Michiel Herkemij (49) as CEO and Chairman of the Executive Board.

Herkemij has extensive international experience in the food and beverage sector, and has led various companies through periods of transition. Within his role as CEO of Douwe Egberts Master Blenders, he managed its move to an independent company following its divestment from Sara Lee. Prior to this, he was involved in the acquisition and integration of FEMSA’s beer division for Heineken and subsequently fulfilled the position of CEO in Mexico.

Before this, Herkemij had worked in Nigeria as the CEO of Nigerian Breweries, an important Heineken subsidiary. He has also led operations in Asia, Africa and the Middle East for FrieslandCampina. Herkemij will plot a new strategic course, continue to work on the new Food structure and the quality of Vion operations and its products. He starts work on 15 January 2014.