Ian Kelly ascends to CEO role at Derrimon Trading

Ian Kelly, a seasoned executive and key member of Derrimon Trading’s leadership team, has been appointed CEO of the publicly-listed company. His appointment marks a strategic move to bolster leadership as Derrimon Trading continues its growth across the retail, distribution, manufacturing, and logistics sectors.

Kelly, who has been with Derrimon since 2011, brings a wealth of experience and leadership to this role, having served in pivotal positions such as group chief financial officer, executive director, divisional director at Sampars, corporate planner, and finance director.

This leadership change reflects Derrimon’s commitment to strong corporate governance and its strategic decision to separate the roles of Chairman and CEO. Derrick Cotterell, who has led Derrimon for 26 years, remains in the position of executive chairman.

“Ian has been a cornerstone of Derrimon’s success, and I am confident in his ability to steer the company to even greater heights,” said Cotterell, Outgoing CEO.

As executive chairman, Cotterell said he would focus on strategic oversight and governance to ensure Derrimon’s continued success.

Derrick Cotterell, executive chairman of Derrimon Trading (right) shares a photo with Ian Kelly, the newly appointed CEO, who has been a stalwart at the company he founded.

As founder of the company Cotterell transformed Derrimon from a small trading operation into a diversified enterprise spanning retail, distribution, manufacturing, and logistics. Under his leadership, Derrimon became an industry leader in the Jamaican marketplace, known for its innovation, customer focus, and operational excellence.

Meanwhile, Kelly a seasoned leader and integral member of Derrimon’s executive team, has played a pivotal role in the company’s remarkable growth and success. He led Derrimon’s initial public offering in 2013, which marked a significant milestone in the company’s history.

He spearheaded multiple mergers and acquisitions, including the acquisition of Spicy Hill, Arosa, Caribbean Flavours and Fragrances, Woodcats, and the international purchase of Food Savers in New York, which was recently rebranded as Sampars New York. These strategic moves have positioned Derrimon as a competitive force across industries.

Securing funding for transformative projects, including the $4.076 billion Additional Public Offering (APO) in 2021, enabling Derrimon to expand its operations and solidify its market leadership.

Speaking on his new role, Ian C. Kelly expressed gratitude and optimism: “I am deeply honoured to accept this role and to continue building on the incredible foundation laid by Mr Cotterell. His stewardship over the last 26 years has been instrumental in shaping Derrimon into the industry leader it is today. I look forward to leading the team as we embark on this exciting new chapter.”