David Frost, Produce World

Name:  David Frost

Position:  Group HR Director

Organisation:  Produce World

Time in post:  3.5 years

Number of employees in organisation:  1400

Number of people in HR department:  17

Latest financial figures/business performance indicators: 

The Group recently announced that it had achieved a dramatic turnaround in performance after reporting an underlying loss of £3.6m for its last financial year (ending 30 June 2011).  The Group is now back into profit and very optimistic about the future.

The company received the Waitrose Technical Excellence Award in June 2011, as well as the re:fresh Innovation of the Year and Packer of the Year awards in May 2011.  Its Growing Trust CSR programme, established in 2007, prioritises Responsible Sourcing, along with Environmental Stewardship, Community Impact and Workplace Culture.

Territories:  UK and Spain

Supporting statement: achievements in 2011/12:

David’s contribution to the running of the day to day business of Produce World goes far beyond the scope of the typical HR Director. He is fully immersed in the operational, commercial and financial challenges that the Group is facing and also counsels colleagues through the difficult decisions and the relentless, uncomfortable negotiations that inevitably occur whilst running a business in a highly competitive, over-supplied, and thin margin sector. David has been instrumental in strengthening not only the senior executive team, but all levels of management within the business. The board has been transformed and reshaped as a direct result of his influence.

David’s demeanour is always professional, pleasant and cheerful despite the pressures that the business might be facing. He has succeeded in putting people at the top of the agenda at Produce World.

Neil Fraser.

Chairman