KINGSTON, Jamaica – GraceKennedy Restricted has introduced key management modifications, efficient February 14, 2025, coinciding with the corporate’s 103rd anniversary.
Following an esteemed interval of service, the Honorable Don Wehby, CD, OJ will conclude his position as Group CEO on February 14, 2025, and resign from the Board of Administrators. Mr. Wehby began working at GraceKennedy in 1995. He turned Group CEO in 2011. Underneath his management, the corporate grew considerably. Income elevated from J$58 billion in 2011 to J$155 billion in 2023.
Enlargement via mergers and acquisitions has been a trademark of Wehby’s leadership, enabling the corporate to develop regionally and globally. Underneath his steering, it has change into one of many largest and most dynamic entities within the Caribbean, with operations spanning the Caribbean, North and Central America, the UK, and Europe.
Senator Don Wehby
“I’m happy with the progress we’ve got made throughout my tenure, and I’m assured that the brand new management crew will take GraceKennedy to even higher heights,” mentioned Wehby. “I wish to thank the Board, my colleagues, and our prospects for his or her assist over time,” he added.
GraceKennedy Group CEO: Frank James
Frank James
Frank James is the present CEO of the Home Meals Division. He was additionally the Group CFO. Mr. James will change into the Group CEO on February 14th, 2025. He’ll be a part of the Board on the identical date. Mr. James joined GraceKennedy in 2005 as Vice President of Strategic Planning and Company Improvement.
James rapidly moved via the ranks, occupying senior roles in each the Meals and Monetary Companies Divisions, earlier than he was appointed Group CFO in 2012. He was additionally appointed to the Board of Administrators that very same yr.
In April 2019, James was appointed Chief Govt Officer, GK Meals Home, the biggest division within the group of firms, the place he has championed progress and effectivity.
Underneath his management, revenues for GK Meals Home grew by greater than sixty p.c as much as 2023 and continues on that progress path, with even higher progress in profitability over the interval.
“I’m honoured to tackle the position of Group CEO and lead the GraceKennedy crew,” mentioned Mr James. “We are going to proceed to deal with delivering worth to our prospects, shareholders, and the communities we serve,” he added.
Don Wehby: An Distinctive Chief
Professor Gordon Shirley (file picture)
Professor Gordon Shirley, Chairman of GraceKennedy Restricted, commented, “Don Wehby is an distinctive chief who sees alternatives in challenges and leads by instance. We’re grateful for his modern spirit, impeccable work ethic and dedication to making sure that the corporate continues to make a distinction within the communities we serve. Don’s management and imaginative and prescient has been instrumental in shaping the corporate into what it’s at this time.”
He added, “We welcome Frank to his new position as Group CEO and I’ve each confidence that his robust management will guarantee continued progress and innovation throughout the enterprise. The very best is but to come back for GraceKennedy.”
Gratittude to Andrew Messado
Professor Shirley additionally expressed his gratitude to Andrew Messado, GraceKennedy Group CFO, for his exemplary management through the transition interval, following Don Wehby’s momentary depart of absence as Group CEO, in late 2024. The GraceKennedy Chairman famous, “Mr. Messado’s regular hand ensured the corporate’s continued momentum, and his contributions throughout this era are gratefully acknowledged.”
2030 Imaginative and prescient
These management modifications observe the corporate’s succession plan. They purpose to make sure continuity and assist future progress. This aligns with the 2030 Imaginative and prescient of turning into the Caribbean’s high model with Jamaican roots and a worldwide attain.
