One of the UK’s biggest meat processors ABP is getting a new chief executive for UK operations this October as Bob Carnell joins.

Carnell is currently managing director of Kerry Food’s consumer brands and will be replacing Tom Kirwan, who stands down in October.

During Carnell’s 24-year career with Kerry Group, the Loughborough University graduate held various senior commercial and general management roles.

ABP group chief executive Frank Stephenson said: "On behalf of all our colleagues across ABP UK and the wider ABP Food group, I would like to sincerely thank Tom for his outstanding contribution to the business over the past 37 years.

"Tom has been instrumental in growing and developing ABP’s business in the UK, where it is now well positioned to deal with the challenges and the opportunities that lie ahead.

"I am also delighted to welcome Bob Carnell to the team and his considerable experience in the agri-business and consumer food sectors will be of significant benefit to ABP.”