Aryzta has announced that Hilliard Lombard, chief executive of Aryzta’s European and Asia-Pacific operations, is to leave the Swiss-based speciality bakery producer at the end of January 2016. Lombard joined Aryzta 11 years ago in 2004 as head of tax but is said to be leaving to pursue other interests, according to a statement from Aryzta.

Owen Killian, Aryzta chief executive, said Lombard made “invaluable contributions” to Aryzta over the years.

“Hilliard has been instrumental in making Aryzta a stronger, better and more relevant business. He rapidly extended his reach to provide thought leadership and play a key role in investor relations, acquisitions and organisation development,” added Killian.

Following Lombard’s departure, Dermot Murphy, managing director of Aryzta Food Solutions and Frank Kleiner, managing director Aryzta’s European/Asian-Pacific Bakeries, will report directly to chief executive Killian.