Susan Barratt is handing over the reins at Natures Way Foods after more than doubling the company’s turnover during her thirteen years in charge.
Barratt, who joined the West Sussex-based business in 2005, has led a successful growth strategy at Natures Way, which has seen turnover increase from £68m to £200m.
The transition to a new CEO is expected to take place in the spring of 2018, with recruitment already under way to find a replacement.
By investing in line with the consumer agenda, Barratt transformed Natures Way from a prepared produce company to a fresh convenient food manufacturer. Under her leadership, the business opened its third and fourth manufacturing sites, growing its employee base from 400 to 1200 and increasing sales significantly in a range of categories.
“I feel privileged to have led NWF through a pivotal part of its history and I am enormously proud of all that the team has achieved,” Barratt said.
“Specifically, I am delighted about the strength of the relationships the business has with its customers, suppliers and our people. NWF is a dynamic business with an exciting forward-looking agenda and I have absolute confidence that NWF will continue to thrive.”
The company’s founder Robert Langmead added: “Susan has led with great energy, commitment and success – she has been an invaluable asset to the company. In her tenure Susan has built a strong team and business foundation that will ensure that the business continues to thrive in the future.
“Recruitment is under way and the board and Susan are focused on ensuring a seamless transition to the new CEO sometime in spring 2018.”
