Peter McGuinness named CEO of Bel North America

Bel Group names new CEO — Courtesy of Bel Group

Bel Group appointed Peter McGuinness as CEO, Bel North America.

In this role, McGuinness will oversee operations across Bel North America's offices in New York City, Chicago and Montreal, as well as five Bel manufacturing plants across the U.S. and Canada. He will lead teams across the region to take Bel's portfolio of seven brands and over 200 product varieties to the next level, with responsibility for accelerating growth, advancing M&A and breakthrough innovation, strengthening the company's local footprint, and building a more sustainable and performance-focused food business.

"North America, and particularly the United States, is a cornerstone of Bel's future," said Cécile Béliot, CEO, Bel Group. "Peter is a transformational, values-driven leader whose track record aligns perfectly with Bel's 'two-leg' model – where profitability and sustainability are equally important. His appointment reflects our confidence in the strength of Bel North America, our Purpose*Full Snacking ambition, and our belief that performance and responsibility go hand in hand."

McGuinness brings a unique combination of consumer brand leadership, operations and manufacturing expertise, and proven cultural and strategic impact across purpose-driven food companies. Most recently, he served as president and CEO of Impossible Foods, leading the company to expanded distribution and market share growth through product innovation and demand creation. Prior to Impossible, he was President and chief operating officer at Chobani, where he helped scale the business into a diversified and category-leading lifestyle brand.

"Bel's mission-led model, rooted in 160 years of innovation and entrepreneurship is inspiring, unique and special," said McGuinness. "I'm excited to accelerate Purpose*Full Snacking across North America and beyond – making it easier for people to snack more intentionally and deliciously with fruit, veggie, and cheese options that bring nourishment and joy, and maybe a laugh or two along the way."