GraceKennedy (GK) Group CEO Don Wehby will retire from his position as well as a director of the board come February 14, which coincides with the entity’s 103rd anniversary

According to a letter shared with Our Today, Frank James, the current CEO of GK’s domestic foods division and former group CFO, will assume the position and responsibilities of GK Group CEO.

The letter signed by GK Group Chairman Professor Gordon Shirley commended Wehby for having a “distinguished tenure” since joining the manufacturing, distribution and financial services conglomerate. Appointed as Group CEO in 2011, Wehby oversaw the growth of GK’s revenues, which more than doubled under his watch, moving from $58 million in 2011 to $155 billion in 2023.

“Expansion through mergers and acquisition has been a hallmark of Wehby’s leadership, enabling the company to grow regionally and globally. Under his guidance, it has become one of the largest and most dynamic entities in the Caribbean, with operations spanning the Caribbean, North and Central America, the United Kingdom, and Europe,” Shirley wrote.

Commenting on the change in leadership, Wehby noted, “I am proud of the progress we have made during my tenure, and I am confident that the new leadership team will take GraceKennedy to even greater heights… I want to thank the board, my colleagues, and our customers for their support over the years.”

Wehby’s successor, James, underscored GK’s commitment to maintaining the “focus on delivering value to our customers, shareholders, and the communities we serve”.

“I am honoured to take on the role of group CEO and lead the GraceKennedy team,” the incoming CEO added.

James joined GraceKennedy in 2005 as vice-president of Strategic Planning and Corporate Development. He quickly rose through the ranks, occupying senior roles in both the GK Foods and GK Financial Services divisions, before he was appointed group CFO in 2012. He was also appointed to the board of directors that same year.

In April 2019, James was appointed chief executive officer of GK Foods Domestic, the largest division in the group of companies, where he has championed growth and efficiency. Under his leadership, revenues for GK Foods Domestic grew by more than 60 per cent up to 2023 and have continued on that trajectory with even greater growth in profitability over the period.

“We welcome Frank to his new role as Group CEO and I have every confidence that his strong leadership will ensure continued growth and innovation across the business. The best is yet to come for GraceKennedy,” Professor Shirley said.

Commenting on the departure of Wehby, the chairman shared, “Don Wehby is an exceptional leader who sees opportunities in challenges and leads by example. We are grateful for his innovative spirit, impeccable work ethic and dedication to ensuring that the company continues to make a difference in the communities we serve.”

“Don’s leadership and vision have been instrumental in shaping the company into what it is today,” he added.

GK Group in October shared that Wehby would have taken a temporary leave of absence to focus on his health. During that time, GK Group CFO Andrew Messado assumed responsibility for the day-to-day operations of the company while Wehby remained involved at the strategic level.

Professor Shirley also expressed his gratitude to Messado for his exemplary leadership during the transition period.

“Mr Messado’s steady hand ensured the company’s continued momentum and his contributions during this period are gratefully acknowledged,” he stated.

According to GK group, the leadership changes are in keeping with the company’s succession plan and are designed to ensure continuity and drive future growth, in line with its 2030 Vision.