First Milk appoints CEO

UK dairy company First Milk has appointed Mike Gallacher as its chief executive. Beginning March 18, Mr Gallacher will assume the role, taking over from Kate Allum who has been CEO for the past six years.

Mr Gallacher’s career is shaped by his long tenure in Mars Inc., where he held various leadership positions, the last one as UK Managing Director for Mars Petcare. Before his career in the food & beverage industry, he served as Army Officer for eight years.

“Mike has all the attributes to put our business back where we want it to be. He has considerable leadership qualities, has turned around businesses in different geographies, and has experience in some of our key export markets,” said First Milk chairman Sir Jim Paice MP. “He demonstrated throughout the interview process that he has rapidly built high performing teams and organisations throughout his career and I look forward to working with him.

He said, "On behalf of the Board, member and employees, I would like to thank Kate Allum for her drive and leadership over the last six years and wish her well for the future."

Based in Glasgow, Scotland, First Milk has manufacturing facilities in England, Scotland and Wales, for the production of milk, cheese, butter, whey proteins and other dairy products.