Kerry Group has announced two new appointments to its senior leadership team. Gavin Caplis has been appointed as the new chief strategy officer and will take over the position from long-time Kerry executive Brian Mehigan.

Caplis has worked for Kerry Group for the past 20 years and most recently served as the group’s head of mergers and acquisitions. It’s understood Caplis is currently leading negotiations for Kerry Group over the company’s future relationship with its largest shareholder, Kerry Co-op.

Meanwhile, Malcolm Shiel has been appointed as the group’s new chief commercial officer within its Taste and Nutrition division. Sheil has worked for Kerry for over 30 years and most recently served as CEO of Kerry’s European operations.

Kerry Group chief executive Edmond Scanlon said the appointments would help the company further embed its position as the world leader in taste and nutrition.

“I am delighted that Gavin and Malcolm, with their unparalleled global industry experience and knowledge, have taken up these important roles as we continue to grow our business,” said Scanlon.