On the occasion of its 103rd anniversary, GraceKennedy (GK) Limited welcomed new group chief executive officer Frank James, who stepped into the role in a new chapter of leadership that honours the company’s rich legacy.

“I am deeply honoured and humbled to step into the role of group CEO of GraceKennedy,” said James. “I inherit an extraordinary legacy and am fully committed to building on the strong foundation laid by past leaders, including my formidable predecessor, Don Wehby. Looking ahead, we are driven by a clear vision—to become the number one Caribbean brand in the world by expanding our footprint, strengthening our impact, and propelling our Group to new heights locally, regionally and globally.”

James, who joined GraceKennedy in 2005, steps into the role of group CEO after serving as CEO of GK Foods Domestic since 2019. Prior to that appointment, he served as group CFO and a director of GraceKennedy Limited from 2012 to 2019.

He succeeds Don Wehby, who has retired after a distinguished tenure with GraceKennedy, during which he led the group to significant growth. Under Wehby’s leadership, GraceKennedy grew into one of the Caribbean’s largest and most dynamic companies, more than doubling in size and expanding further into international markets.

“I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Don for his mentorship and guidance over the years,” James said. “His leadership has been invaluable, not only in shaping the direction of GK but also in helping to shape me as a leader. I am truly privileged to have had the opportunity to learn from him, and I look forward to building on the foundation he has laid for our company’s continued success.”

In 2023, GK reached its US$1 billion revenue target—two years ahead of schedule—underscoring the strength of its growth strategy and commitment to its 2030 goals. These targets include generating 70 percent of its revenue and profit outside Jamaica and achieving US$2.1 billion in revenue and US$250 million in profit before tax. 

“We are focused on continuing this momentum,” James commented. “We will continue to prioritise geographic expansion in key food markets across the USA, Canada, and the UK, while strengthening GraceKennedy Financial Group’s presence in the Caribbean through the expansion of our digital financial products and services.”

James also highlighted the company’s commitment to embedding Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into its business strategy.

“We recognise the importance of sustainability and social responsibility in today’s business environment. Our ESG commitment builds on our longstanding ‘We Care’ ethos and will be central to our mission of making a positive impact on people and the planet,” he said.

During a virtual forum, attended by over 2,000 GK team members from across the world, James and the GK Executive Committee outlined the company’s strategy for the future.

Emphasising collaboration, empowerment, and innovation as key drivers of sustained growth, James reinforced the importance of the team’s collective strength, “GraceKennedy’s strength lies in its people. Together, we will continue to unlock value, unleash greatness, and deliver on our commitment to those we serve around the world.”

Professor Gordon Shirley, chairman of GraceKennedy, expressed his confidence in James’ leadership at the forum.

“Frank has been an integral part of the GraceKennedy family for nearly 20 years, rising through the ranks with distinction. He has a deep understanding of our business, our people, and our values, and he possesses the foresight and determination needed to take us to the next level,” noted Shirley.

“I am confident that Frank will usher in an era marked by a clear ambitious strategy and effective execution, leading GraceKennedy to even greater milestones as we continue our journey to becoming a global consumer group,” he added.