Darling Downs-based beef business Mort & Co has appointed a CEO following an extensive recruitment process.
Stephen O'Brien, most recently CEO and managing director for Australian specialty wholesale bakery, Wild Breads has been appointed to the key role with Australia's largest locally owned lot feeder.
He is set to start in the role on January 27, 2020.
Mr O'Brien brings with him considerable domestic and international experience across a range of industries and has had a strong focus in the food arena throughout his career, holding key roles with several listed, privately owned and private equity-based organisations.
Starting out with Defiance Milling where he spent 15 years, his career has seen him succeed in a variety of positions which have included general manager of Parmalat Coca Cola (NT & East Timor), general manager of Parmalat (Vic, SA, TAS, WA), CEO of Parmalat (USA), operations leader of Reece, president of TJM (Global) and executive director ofTJM (USA, China, Middle East).
Mr O'Brien held his most recent role with Wild Breads from 2017 to 2019.
Mort & Co managing director Charlie Mort, will move from his current role into the executive chairman position, while simultaneously assisting in the transition.
Current chairman, Richard Hughes, will step aside from his role but will remain as a director of Mort & Co.
"This is an exciting appointment for the business and one that we see as necessary in continuing the Mort & Co success story," Mr Mort said.
"Stephen has a proven track record in delivering growth as evidenced by his performances across a range of industries.
"Most importantly, his values driven approach is something that aligns perfectly with the Mort & Co culture.
Mr Mort said little would change with regard to his own position.
"It's business as usual," he said.
"I will still be fully involved in everything that Mort & Co are doing, and along with Stephen, the Board of Directors and Executive Committee, we are aiming to ensure that the business evolves and continues to grow".