Appointment of ABF Chief Financial Officer
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5 March 2026
Appointment of Group Chief Financial Officer
Associated British Foods plc ("ABF" or "the Group") today announces the appointment of Joana Edwards as Group Chief Financial Officer with immediate effect. Joana has served as Group Interim Finance Director since 31 March 2025, and prior to that she was Group Financial Controller, having joined the group in 2020.
Joana has over 30 years of international finance experience across the UK, Europe, Middle East and Africa, with particular expertise in FMCG and consumer-facing industries, including retail. She has a focus on disciplined capital allocation and shareholder value creation, combined with strong technical capability across integrated reporting, controls and financial planning.
Before joining ABF, Joana was Group Financial Controller at L'Oréal, having previously held a number of senior Finance Director roles across that Group's regions and business units.
Joana will join the ABF Board as an Executive Director with immediate effect.
Commenting on the appointment, George Weston, Chief Executive, said:
"Joana is a highly experienced financial leader who over the past twelve months has demonstrated a clear understanding of ABF's business and operating model, rigour in the execution of her role and a passion for building high performing teams. Joana will continue to play a key role in delivering the Group's strategic priorities. Her experience will be invaluable as we continue to drive long-term, sustainable growth."
Michael McLintock, Chairman, said:
"The Board and I have been very impressed by the capability and strength Joana has brought to the interim position. She has demonstrated both the judgement and the skillset required for the role of Chief Financial Officer. We are delighted to welcome her to the Board."
Joana Edwards, Chief Financial Officer, said:
"I am thrilled to be appointed Chief Financial Officer. During my time at ABF, I have worked closely with our teams across the business and have seen first-hand the strength of our portfolio, the resilience of our model and the depth of talent we have across the organisation. I will focus on disciplined capital allocation, cost management and cash generation, while ensuring we invest behind the areas of greatest strategic potential. I look forward to working with the Board and leadership team to deliver sustainable, long-term growth and attractive returns for our shareholders."
This announcement is made in accordance with UK Listing Rule 6.4.6R. There are no matters that require disclosure under UK Listing Rule 6.4.8R.
For further information please contact:
Associated British Foods
+44 20 7399 6545
Joana Edwards, Chief Financial Officer
Lucinda Baker, Director of Investor Relations
Joe Carberry, Director of Corporate Affairs
Brunswick Group
+44 20 7404 5959
Rosie Oddy
Emilia Smith
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