Barfoots of Botley commercial director Jon Barfoot has departed the family firm.
Barfoot left the business last week after completing a three-month notice and handover period. He had worked at the Sussex sweetcorn specialist since 2002, having started as a national account manager and moving up to commercial manager in 2007 and then commercial director in 2009.
He told FPJ that he does not currently have another role lined up and is taking time off to consider the next stage of his development. 'This is as good a time as any to take a career break after 15 years,' he said. 'It's a good time to go out on a high. I'm doing some things for charity and taking time to consider what comes next for my career and personal development.'
Barfoot said he did not envisage working for another fresh produce company in future, but could consider a different sector of agriculture.
Juan Carlos Leon, the company's sourcing and business development director, is understood to have taken on Barfoot's responsibilities as commercial director. Leon has worked at the company since November 2006, having joined as supply chain manager from non-fresh produce roles at Telecom Argentina and PSA Peugeot Citroen.
The Argentinian engineering graduate also has an MBA from Cranfield University.
Barfoot endorsed Leon's appointment as his replacement, saying he was well-suited to the role and has 'a good team of people' supporting him.
Barfoots' managing director Julian Marks was unavailable for comment when contacted by FPJ.
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