Introducing Ludovic Alibert: Chief Operating Officer, EMEA
November 2024
The Chaucer Foods team is pleased to announce the appointment of Ludovic Alibert as Chief Operating Officer, EMEA.
Ludovic joins Chaucer Foods with over 25 years of extensive experience in the food and beverage industry. We are eager to see how his expertise and leadership will contribute to our continued success.
Recently, we had the opportunity to speak with Ludovic about his impressive career, his insights into the food and beverage sector, and his vision for the future at Chaucer Foods.
Q: What is your professional background and career highlights prior to joining Chaucer Foods team?
A:I have over 25 years of experience in B2B and B2C sales, primarily within the food and non-food ingredients sectors. Throughout my career, I have worked for major international companies and cooperatives, gaining valuable insights across different cultures.
A key achievement in my previous role was strengthening my employer’s position in both upstream and downstream markets. This was accomplished by transforming the commercial organization, enhancing the value proposition of products in premium markets, and shifting the business model from commodities to specialties. I also played a pivotal role in diversifying activities and driving sales growth. As a result, within just three years, EBIT increased by €26 million.
Q: What are your areas of expertise and what strengths will help you excel in this role?
A: Leadership and strategy are central to my role, providing a clear vision to empower people and support the organization in regard to both economic and human concerns.
While commerce has been a significant part of my career, I have also managed business units and cross-functional, multidisciplinary teams, including sales, sourcing, marketing, customer service, front and back office, quality, and product management. These experiences will be invaluable to me in my role at Chaucer.
Q: Within the food and beverage industry, what trends/innovations are you most interested in? Why?
A: I recently discovered the hidden world of startups through various platforms such as Earthshotprize.org, led by H.R.H. Prince William, and team-planet.com. It’s truly impressive to see the range of projects in foodtech and agrotechnology, such as alternatives to cocoa or using algae to capture CO2. These startups tirelessly work to secure funding and bring their innovations to market. It’s inspiring to witness the shift in the food industry, where food waste is being transformed into new ingredients through upcycling processes. I was astonished to learn that 30% of resources are wasted—but not wasted in the traditional sense. There are so many sustainable initiatives making a real impact.
Q: What’s the number one challenge or pain point you hope you can help Chaucer Foods’ customers address or solve in their day-to-day operations? Why?
A: My key observation after two weeks is that we need to explore new development avenues to regain competitiveness and profitability. This means striving to be best-in-class in our core business in Saumur (B2B), while also seeking growth opportunities in other channels. For example, we could expand into B2C by offering turnkey solutions to our customers, including both products and packaging.
Q: Tell us a fun fact about yourself!
A: It took me nearly 30 years to get back into triathlons. My first competition was in 1994, and I completed three events last year. I’ve finally stopped making excuses and found good reasons to return to the sport. Of course, as I get older, my performance goals have changed, and I’ve adjusted my expectations accordingly. Now, my focus is on enjoying the environment, celebrating the event, and pushing myself to the finish line. For example, I improved my time by 25 minutes between my first and third races. I’m proud of that.
As Winston Churchill said, “They did not know it was impossible, so they did it.” I will always admire those who dare to challenge themselves!
Q: What are you most looking forward to about joining Chaucer Foods?
A: I’m beginning my third onboarding week at Chaucer, and I’ve already met many amazing people here. Each encounter is a valuable personal and professional learning experience. I’m excited to connect with my colleagues in the AMER and APAC regions as well, to hear about their experiences and expertise.
The most exciting challenge will be creating agile and flexible operations, combined with proactive sales that are closely aligned with our customers and prospects. Our environment—clients, competition, regulations, geopolitics—constantly evolves, so it’s up to us to adapt accordingly. One team, one voice in front of the market.
Are you similar to Ludovic, seeking a career that offers hands-on experience, the ability to own your projects, and the opportunity to create an impact, all within a supportive and enjoyable work environment? Check out our careers page to learn more about current and future opportunities at Chaucer Foods.
Looking to innovate a healthy, convenient food or beverage product that consumers will love? Contact us to connect with our team.
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