Meat alternative brand Quorn Foods has appointed David Flochel to the position of CEO following Marco Bertacca’s departure.

Flochel joins following roles at health company Haleon and Heineken. From 2016 to 2020, Flochel assumed the position of CEO at the Selecta group, and had a leadership role at Mars Drinks of Mars Incorporated. He also worked in customer development roles at Unilever Food Solutions in France and in the Netherlands.

Speaking of his appointment, Flochel commented: “Quorn Foods has a strong history of success, but 2025 will be a reset year for the company. This is a brilliant opportunity to transform the business into the next stage of its journey and I am delighted to be taking on this new role. I believe that with the right focus and execution we can turn around the company and current category performance.”

Bertacca said: “I know Quorn is in good hands. David is bringing an incredible depth of knowledge and experience into the company, and we are already working closely together to ensure a smooth transition.”

Bertacca, who joined the business in January 2024, has stepped down after nearly five years as CEO, with Flochel joining the business in November 2024.

Quorn said that during his tenure, Bertacca oversaw initiatives such as the launch of the Marlow Ingredients division in 2023. It also highlighted that he had navigated the business through “global challenges” including the pandemic and “subsequent turbulent inflation and cost-of-living crisis”.

Henry Soesanto, chief executive of Monde Nissin, which owns Quorn Foods, said: “Marco has been instrumental in leading Quorn through many pivotal moments in its history. His passion for the company, our mission and values has been unparalleled.

“We are delighted to welcome David to the team, and are confident that under his leadership, Quorn Foods will thrive and continue to be the global leader of the alternative protein sector.”