Ornua CEO to step down in mid-2018

Ornua, the largest exporter of Irish dairy products, has announced its chief executive, Kevin Lane, is to step down in mid-2018, after eight-and-a-half years in the position.

Lane, who took up the role in January 2010, will leave Ornua in June 2018, with Ornua saying the move is “to spend time with his young family and to pursue other interests.” 

Ornua chairman Aaron Forde said a process will now commence to appoint a new CEO.

Oversaw big changes

Forde said Lane successfully led Ornua through a period of significant change and growth, particularly the ending of dairy quotas in 2015. 

“With great vision, Kevin together with his senior leadership team, have strategically reshaped and refocussed the Ornua business to unlock new routes to market and to drive international growth while consistently delivering strong results for Ireland’s dairy processors and farming community,” Forde said.

During Lane’s tenure Ornua opened its first processing plant in Ireland, Kerrygold Park, and oversaw the international expansion of the Kerrygold brand.

Prior to taking up the position, Lane was global president and chief executive of Kerry Group’s Flavours Division.   He held other senior executive positions during his 22-year career with Kerry Group with in-market roles in the UK, US, Canada and Mexico.