Ash Amirahmadi is to join Sofina Foods Europe as its CEO, leaving Arla UK, the UK’s biggest dairy cooperative, where he has been managing director since 2018.

Amirahmadi said: “I am delighted to be joining Sofina Foods and relishing the opportunity to work with Michael Latifi and the Sofina Foods Europe team to build on their significant progress in transforming the business towards category leadership.

“Sofina Foods has a track record of working in partnership with its customers and suppliers, developing sustainable and resilient supply chains, investing in its people, adding value to categories, and long-term commitment to social responsibility across multiple stakeholders. My experience in the UK grocery sector mirrors these values and therefore I am honoured to lead Sofina Foods Europe on the journey ahead.

“We are operating in a complex and challenging global market. I am humble and respectful of the task ahead and committed to playing my part, together with the Sofina family, to transform the food system.”

He takes over from Michael Latifi, who has been CEO for Sofina Foods Europe since 2021. Michael remains the founder, chairman and chief executive officer of Sofina Foods Inc.

Latifi said: “We are delighted to welcome Ash to the Sofina family. I am confident that Ash’s deep experience and reputation within the grocery and farming sectors will help us deliver ongoing success across our European operations and demonstrate our continued commitment to quality and innovation.

“Ash joins us at an important time for the industry. He will help Sofina Foods Europe lead the way in developing a more sustainable supply chain, capable of producing great-tasting, affordable and high-quality products for consumers and greatly contribute to our vision.”