McLoughlin, who previously worked as Unilever Food Solutions’ global account director for contract caterer Compass, brings a wealth of customer development experience to the role.

Tracey Rogers, managing director at Unilever Food Solutions, said: “Damian joins us with a strong background in contract negotiation. He’s an expert in building successful customer relationships, and will be instrumental in driving success across both our independent and chains business as we look to look to hit our global 2015 targets.”

McLoughlin added: “It’s a great time to be joining Unilever Food Solutions UK & Ireland. The company has big sales growth ambitions for 2013, so I’m looking forward to working with the team to further develop customer relationships and demonstrate the value Unilever Food Solutions can add to their businesses.”

McLoughlin succeeds Chris Hales who has moved into the distributive sales director role for the UK and Ireland.