GraceKennedy Limited has announced that its long-serving CEO, Don Wehby, will retire on February 14, 2025, marking the end of an era after nearly three decades with the Jamaican multinational conglomerate. At the same time, Wehby will step down from the company’s board of directors, with Frank James, currently CEO of GraceKennedy’s Domestic Foods Division, set to take over as the new group CEO.
This leadership transition comes after Wehby, 61, temporarily reduced his involvement in daily operations in October 2024 to focus on his health, though specific details regarding his health condition have not been disclosed. Wehby has led GraceKennedy since 2011, during which the company saw remarkable growth, including a significant revenue increase from $58 billion to $155 billion by 2023. His tenure also saw strategic acquisitions that helped GraceKennedy expand its reach in North America, Europe, and Central America.
Under Wehby’s leadership, GraceKennedy became one of the most well-known and diversified conglomerates in the Caribbean. “I am proud of the progress we have made during my time at GraceKennedy,” Wehby stated in his retirement announcement. “I am confident that Frank James and the team will continue to take the company to even greater heights.”
James, who joined GraceKennedy in 2005, has held several senior roles within the financial services and food divisions. As CEO of GK Foods Domestic Business, he spearheaded the division’s impressive 60% revenue growth through 2023 while enhancing profitability. James expressed his excitement about stepping into the role of group CEO. “I am honored to lead GraceKennedy into the future, building on the strong foundation laid by Don,” he said. “Our focus will remain on delivering value to our customers, shareholders, and communities.”
GraceKennedy’s Chairman, Professor Gordon Shirley, commended Wehby for his visionary leadership, highlighting his transformative role in the company’s growth and global competitiveness. He also expressed full confidence in James’ ability to continue the company’s trajectory. “Frank has proven his capabilities, and we are confident that he will continue to drive growth and innovation across the group,” Shirley remarked.
In addition to the CEO transition, GraceKennedy announced several key appointments, further solidifying its succession planning and future growth. Debra Dodd and Kerry-Ann Lincoln will assume the roles of divisional chief financial officers for GraceKennedy Financial Group and GK Foods, respectively, effective January 1, 2025. These appointments are expected to strengthen financial management and support the company’s long-term objectives.
With these leadership changes, GraceKennedy is poised to continue its journey as a global brand rooted in Jamaican heritage, aligned with its Vision 2030 strategy.
