Ferrero Appoints New Managing Director for UK & Ireland
Ferrero has announced the appointment of Alessandro Rigazzi as the new Managing Director for the UK and Ireland, marking a strategic move to strengthen its regional leadership. Rigazzi succeeds Jason Sutherland, who led the business over the past three years and departs to pursue new opportunities outside the group.
Previously Vice-President for Ferrero’s Asia-Pacific business, Rigazzi brings over two decades of experience within the company. Known for spearheading growth in key Asian markets, he is expected to leverage his commercial expertise and international perspective to drive the company’s next phase of development in the UK and Irish markets.
“I am delighted to be joining the Ferrero UK & Ireland team – one of the group’s most established markets with a proud heritage and strong brands,” said Rigazzi. “I look forward to continuing to grow our presence and build on our long-standing relationship with our valued retail partners.”
Ferrero has been steadily reinforcing its footprint in the UK and Ireland, particularly across its core confectionery brands including Ferrero Rocher, Kinder, and Thorntons. The region remains one of the group’s most mature markets, with a strong emphasis on retail partnerships and consumer engagement. Rigazzi’s appointment signals a continued focus on brand investment, market responsiveness, and category innovation.
Under Sutherland’s leadership, Ferrero UK & Ireland expanded its portfolio and navigated evolving shopper behaviours. Rigazzi, based in the company’s Greenford office, is expected to continue this momentum while adapting the company’s offering in line with shifting consumer trends and health-conscious preferences.
Rigazzi’s arrival comes amid broader growth within Ferrero’s global operations, as the group continues to invest in product diversification and regional leadership to remain competitive in a saturated FMCG environment. With UK and Ireland supermarket shelves seeing increased demand for premium confectionery and seasonal innovations, industry stakeholders will be watching closely as Ferrero’s new leadership shapes strategic priorities.