Stepp will join the snacking giant in January 2027, taking responsibility for its global end-to-end supply chain across more than 110 markets.
Pladis said the appointment comes as it seeks to capitalise on a multi-year transformation programme and a period of significant investment across its operations.
In recent years, the company has invested £68 million across its UK bakeries, expanded capability at its Cairo facility, increased production capacity in France and strengthened operations across key markets like Türkiye and the USA. In 2025, the business invested more than £100 million in capital expenditure to improve capacity, productivity and resilience across its manufacturing network.
Stepp joins from Dublin-listed Kerry Group, where he most recently served as chief operations officer of its biotechnology business and global vice president of manufacturing. He previously held senior leadership positions at ARYZTA, Kraft Foods and Mondelez International, including responsibility for operations across Mondelez’s European snacking business.
He succeeds Mario Reis, who will retire at the end of the year after helping reshape the company’s manufacturing footprint and capabilities during his almost decade-long tenure with the business.
Pladis chief HR officer, Geraldine Fraser, said: “Frankgerald brings significant baking expertise, international experience and a strong track record of leading complex organisations. He joins us at an important point in our journey and will build on the strong foundations already in place as we focus on the next phase of growth.”
Stepp, said: “pladis has built an impressive portfolio of brands and a strong manufacturing network across its markets. I’m looking forward to joining the business and working with colleagues around the world to build on that foundation and support the company’s long-term ambitions.”
Stepp succeeds Mario Reis, who will retire at the end of the year after helping to reshape the company’s manufacturing footprint and capabilities during his almost decade-long tenure with the business.
