Graham Veal's retirement from Welbilt confirmed

Graham Veal, vice-president marketing EMEA, Welbilt is to retire from his role in January 2018 having joined the group in 1994, originally as part-owner and managing director of Merrychef.

Veal also held senior leadership roles within both the Enodis Group and more recently in Manitowoc Foodservice and latterly Welbilt.

Veal will be succeeded in the role by John Rourke, who will take on direct responsibility for the EMEA field marketing team while maintaining his current functions and direct reports in sales analysis and finance.

During his time at Merrychef, Veal was instrumental in developing the company's business and the globalisation of the Merrychef brand. While at Enodis, he led the UK foodservice and beverage activities subsequently driving extensive growth and profitability which he continued whilst in his role at Manitowoc, where he managed sales and distribution channels.

In his most recent role as vice-president marketing for the EMEA markets, Veal has successfully led the marketing team during the company rebrand to Welbilt, as well as managing strong growth within the marine and hotel sectors.

Veal plans to remain strategically involved within the foodservice industry through his consultancy, GCA Management, and non-executive directorships whilst also lecturing at universities and business schools.

The marine and hospitality sales and culinary team will now be overseen by Jean-Paul Roudier, vice-president sales EMEA.

Phil Dei Dolori, senior vice-president and managing director, EMEA & APAC commented: "We would like to thank Graham for his significant contributions to the company during his long and successful career and wish him a very relaxing retirement. Graham has led his teams with passion and enthusiasm throughout his career, and as a consequence they have achieved some truly remarkable results. Though we will be sad to see Graham retire, we are delighted that both John Rourke and Jean-Paul Roudier will be taking up their new roles in January 2018 and as such would like to extend our congratulations to John and Jean-Paul and wish them the best of luck with their extended responsibilities."

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