MD of leading indie snack brand steps down after 14 years

10 August 2020, 08:21 AM
  • Chairman and managing director of Burts Snacks, David Nairn, has been succeeded by David Nulty - former MD of SHS’s Drinks Division, vice president of Coca-Cola Enterprises and director ICC Europe at Kraft Foods

During his 14 years at the helm of the Devon-based premium snack brand, David Nairn helped the company expand into new sectors and boost its sales from £1m per annum to over £60m.

He will remain a member of the Burts Snacks team as its new non-executive director and company secretary, supporting on direction and strategy.

David Nairn said, “After 14 years I am looking forward to seeing the business through a different lens. My career has been redefined by this industry after 32 years in banking. The role played in supporting our people and customers every day and my passion to continue to support the Burts family story will never change.

“I am proud of the extraordinary team and the incredible products we have developed, and I am excited for what the future holds under Dave’s stewardship.”

Of the evolution of David Nairn’s role, chairman of Burts Snacks, Jitu Patel said, “David’s experience and knowledge will continue to be invaluable for our leadership and continued growth. His enthusiasm and tireless commitment to growth and strategic direction will ensure that Burts Snacks is well-positioned to continue on its growth trajectory.”

David Nulty, commenting on his new role, said, “I am excited about this new opportunity and the prospect of working with such a dedicated and ambitious team. David’s leadership, commitment and passion for the business has created a long-lasting legacy and I am very much looking forward to building on his achievements, taking the brand and its product offering into the next chapter.

“Speciality businesses are a very important channel for the company, and will continue to be so. As a regional supplier with a rich Devonshire heritage, Burts’ focus on providing great quality snacks combined with outstanding regional provenance, has always resonated well with independent speciality retailers. I’m very excited to take the reins of this well established and well-respected business, and I look forward to progressing the relationship with speciality retailers even further in the future.”

more like this
close stay up-to-date with our free newsletter | expert intel | tailored industry news | new-to-know trend analysis | sign up | speciality food daily briefing