June 30/London/just-food global news -- Premier Foods plc, one of the U.K.'s largest food groups, has appointed a former Kraft Foods executive as its chairman.

Ronnie Bell, who spent 30 years with Kraft in Europe including a stint as president, will take up the role at Premier on October 1.

During his time at Kraft, Bell held a number of senior management appointments. In his last role as president, he was responsible for the group's European coffee, chocolate and grocery brands.

As announced in February, David Kappler will step down as chairman and as a non-executive director following Bell's appointment.

Robert Schofield, CEO of Premier Foods, said, "I am delighted to welcome Ronnie as chairman of Premier Foods. Ronnie has had a long and successful career in the food industry and brings with him a wealth of experience. I look forward to working with him as we focus on delivering organic growth and reducing debt."  

From the July 6, 2010, Prepared Foods E-dition