Nestlé appoints Ben Duncan as Managing Director for UK and Ireland Food Business
Nestlé strengthens its UK and Ireland leadership with Ben Duncan’s appointment, aiming to drive growth and innovation across key food brands amid evolving consumer demand.
UK – Nestlé has appointed Ben Duncan as managing director for its food business in the UK and Ireland, reinforcing its leadership team in a key regional market.
In his new role, Duncan will oversee Nestlé’s food operations across the UK and Ireland, managing well-known brands such as Maggi and Carnation.
He succeeds Hinza Dusanek, who has held the position since 2023. The move comes as the company continues to prioritise growth, innovation and a consumer-led strategy.
Duncan brings more than 20 years of experience within Nestlé, having joined the company in 2004 through its Purina division. His career has included senior commercial roles across the UK and international markets, spanning sales, marketing, category management and strategic revenue leadership.
In his new position, Duncan is expected to drive performance across the company’s food category, focusing on strengthening brand relevance and responding to evolving consumer preferences, particularly in convenience, health and value segments.
Commenting on his appointment, Duncan said he was “pleased to be stepping into the role” and emphasised the importance of Nestlé’s brands in daily consumption.
“Our trusted brands play a key role in everyday meals for families across the UK and Ireland, and I’m excited to build on that trust and put consumers at the centre of everything we do,” he said.
The leadership change comes as Nestlé continues to reshape parts of its global portfolio. In March, reports indicated that the company’s planned sale of a significant stake in its European water business had progressed, with private equity firms Clayton, Dubilier & Rice, KKR and PAI Partners advancing to the next bidding round. Platinum Equity has also expressed interest in the transaction.
The proposed 50% stake sale could value the business at approximately €5 billion (US$5.75 billion).
For the financial year ended 31 December 2025, Nestlé reported total sales of CHF 89.49 billion (US$115.97 billion), representing a 2% decline. However, organic growth reached 3.5%, supported by pricing growth of 2.8% and real internal growth of 0.8%.
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