Ornua, the Irish dairy co-operative and owner of Kerrygold, has unveiled significant changes to its global leadership team alongside a new operating model designed to accelerate international growth.
At the heart of the new structure is the creation of a Global Commercial Division, which will bring together Ornua’s consumer foods and value-added ingredients businesses.
This division will be led by Cesar França, appointed to the newly established role of Chief Commercial Officer.
França previously served as Managing Director of Ornua Global Foods.
In parallel, the business is moving to a centralised Global Operations Function, headed by Jason Musk, who takes on the role of Chief Operating Officer.
Musk will be tasked with enhancing efficiency, scaling business performance, and maintaining best-in-class operational standards across Ornua’s worldwide operations.
The structural changes are a core part of a fresh growth plan devised by Ornua CEO Conor Galvin and his senior team, aimed at boosting efficiency, unlocking synergies, and positioning the co-operative for long-term success in a challenging global marketplace.
Welcoming the appointments, Galvin said: “The introduction of a more focused and agile operating model is an exciting milestone in Ornua’s continued growth journey.
“It marks the first step in the delivery of a new and ambitious growth strategy, which will drive value for Ornua’s Member Co-operatives and Irish farming families, while serving the needs of our customers across the globe.”
He noted the changes come at a pivotal time for the dairy sector.
“Geopolitical tensions, trade disruptions, and shifting consumer behaviours, have all increased business uncertainty and impacted market conditions.
“Irish milk supply growth has also slowed significantly in recent years, which requires Ornua, along with its Member Co-operatives, to adopt a renewed focus on maximising value from existing milk volume.”
Galvin also praised Musk’s appointment, highlighting his extensive global FMCG experience and leadership in periods of transformation.
Alongside these developments, Ornua will establish a Route to Market & Member Relations Business Unit, dedicated to building profitable channels for Irish dairy products. Leadership for this new division will be confirmed in the coming months.
Photo: Jason Musk, Ornua Chief Operating Officer
