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Frank James has been appointed CEO of GraceKennedy, effective February 14, 2025, he replaces Don Wehby.
James will transition from his current role as CEO of GraceKennedy’s Domestic Foods Division. He joined GraceKennedy in 2005 as Vice President of Strategic Planning and Corporate Development and steadily advanced to senior roles in both the food and financial services divisions. In 2012, he was appointed Group CFO and joined the board of directors.
In April 2019, James became CEO of GK Foods Domestic, the group's largest division. Under his leadership, revenues grew by over 60 per cent by 2023, with profitability increasing even more significantly during the same period.In commenting on his appointment, James: "I am honoured to take on the role of Group CEO and lead the GraceKennedy team.”
"I am honoured to take on the role of Group CEO and lead the GraceKennedy team," said James. "We will continue to focus on delivering value to our customers, shareholders, and the communities we serve," he added.
Left to right: Outgoing CEO Don Wehby and newly appointed CEO Frank James (File photo)
Here are 10 things to about Frank James.
- Prior to joining GraceKennedy, Frank James worked with PricewaterhouseCoopers as a Senior Consultant and Manager, and at Desnoes and Geddes Limited (now Red Stripe Limited) as Distribution Planner.
- He holds an MBA in Finance from the University of California, Los Angeles, Anderson School of Management, and a Bachelor of Science in Management Studies and Accounting from The University of the West Indies.
- James joined GraceKennedy in August 2005 as Vice President of Strategic Planning and Corporate Development for the then Information Services Division.
- He’s a chartered financial analyst.
- James is a Trustee of the Codrington Trust of the Anglican Church in the Province of the West Indies.
- He has previously served as a Vice President of the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica.
- He has also served on the Trade Policy Committee of the Jamaica Exporters’ Association and on the Board of Directors of the College of Agriculture, Science and Education.
- He is the current CEO of the Gracekennedy’s Domestic Foods Division and the former Group CFO.
- He has held several senior roles in both the Food and Financial Services Divisions, of GraceKennedy before being appointed Group CFO in 2012.
- He attended Wolmer’s Boys' School
