Ton Christiaanse to be appointed CEO at Potato Processor Aviko as Piet Hein Merckens resigns

Dutch potato processor Aviko, a subsidiary of Royal Cosun will have a new (interim) CEO effective January 1, 2019

Cosun has announced it will appoint Ton Christiaanse as interim CEO of Aviko to replace Piet Hein Merckens who will resign from his position as CEO Aviko B.V. per that date.

Differences of insight with the Board of Directors of Royal Cosun about the execution of Aviko’s strategic planning have resulted in a mutual decision to move on separately.

Piet Hein Merckens:
 

“Aviko is a wonderful company with talented and engaged people, great brand activation and an excellent growth potential.”

“With the right focus, an integrated mindset and joint efforts by all, Aviko has a prosperous future ahead.”

Piet Hein Merckens became chief executive officer at Aviko in 2014. Prior to that he held positions as CEO of Royal Wessanen and president at Douwe Egberts/Sara Lee. He started his career at Procter & Gamble.

Albert Markusse, CEO at Royal Cosun:
 

“We would like to thank Piet Hein Merckens for his many contributions to Aviko’s success.”

“During his tenure Aviko experienced significant performance increase, while the organization was further professionalized and prepared for future growth.”

In the coming months Merckens will complete a number of projects and prepare for a smooth handover of responsibilities, once succession has been completed.

Cosun has announced it will appoint Ton Christiaanse as interim CEO of Aviko.

Mr Christiaanse (56) has a wealth of general management experience in the international food industry. A graduate in International Business from Nyenrode Business University, he has held general management positions at Unilever, Chiquita, Sara Lee and Farm Frites. Between 2007 and 2012, he was a member of the Executive Board of VION, first in his capacity as COO of the Convenience Division and then as CEO Grampian Food Group/VION UK.

Since 2012 he has been active as an international consultant and interim manager at the highest level. Mr Christiaanse has built up an excellent reputation throughout his career.

As CEO of Aviko, Ton Christiaanse will be a member of Cosun’s Executive Board and will report directly to Cosun’s CEO. His introduction to Aviko and Cosun will commence immediately