GOLDEN Vale's new chief executive, Mr Jim Murphy, has carried out a major restructuring of management at the Charleville-based agri-business group which sees the departure of Mr Paul Marron, the general manager of the food service division, "to pursue a number of options in the development of his career outside the group".

In a statement, Mr Murphy said the new management structure, which involves the creation of five directors, is designed to increase focus on the group's core business areas. "This new structure will enable each division to concentrate all its efforts on its own products, geographical markets and business development."

As part of the restructuring, Mr Liam Woulfe has been appointed executive director for Golden Vale's butter and milk powders division, while Mr Liam Mackessy is executive director for the liquid milk and specialist divisions, including the St Brendan's cream liqueur business. Mr John Gleeson is commercial director with responsibility for milk assembly and agri-business, while an executive director for the key cheese and spreads division will be appointed "in due course".

Other executives, who will report directly to Mr Murphy, include company secretary, Mr Seamus Lynch, corporate affairs manager, Mr Chris Gibson and a new director of human resources who has yet to be appointed.