Global snacking giant pladis has named former Kerry Taste & Nutrition executive Frankgerald Stepp as its new chief supply chain officer, effective January 2027.
Stepp will take charge of the company’s global end-to-end supply chain network, overseeing operations spanning more than 110 markets. He succeeds Mario Reis, who is retiring at the end of the year following a nearly decade-long tenure that reshaped pladis's manufacturing footprint and capabilities.
A foundation of heavy capital investment
Stepp’s arrival comes on the heels of an extensive, multi-year transformation of pladis's manufacturing and supply chain network. Over recent years, the business has injected £68 million into its UK bakeries, increased production capacity in France, expanded capabilities at its Cairo facility, and reinforced its operational footprint in crucial growth regions like the USA and Türkiye. Furthermore, in 2025 alone, the company channelled over £100 million into capital expenditures dedicated to boosting network capacity, productivity, and supply chain resilience.
Industry veteran brings deep expertise
Stepp transitions to pladis from Dublin-listed Kerry Group, where he most recently held dual roles as chief operations officer of its biotechnology business and global vice president of manufacturing. His extensive background in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector includes senior leadership positions at major organizations such as ARYZTA, Kraft Foods, and Mondelez International – where he managed operations for Mondelez’s European snacking division.
"Mario and his teams have played a central role in building the supply chain and manufacturing network we have today,” said Chief HR Officer Geraldine Fraser. “Through significant investment and transformation, he has helped create a stronger platform for growth across our business.
"Frankgerald brings significant baking expertise, international experience and a strong track record of leading complex organisations. He joins us at an important point in our journey and will build on the strong foundations already in place as we focus on the next phase of growth," added Fraser
Looking ahead to his new role, incoming supply chain chief Stepp said, "pladis has built an impressive portfolio of brands and a strong manufacturing network across its markets. I'm looking forward to joining the business and working with colleagues around the world to build on that foundation and support the company's long-term ambitions."