His elevation to the North America presidency signals Puratos‘ intent to accelerate sustainable development and innovation across the region.

NORTH AMERICA – Puratos, the global leader in bakery, patisserie, and chocolate ingredients, has announced the promotion of Andy Brimacombe to President of North American markets, effective January 1, 2026, as part of a strategic growth push.
The move marks a pivotal moment in the company’s long-term succession strategy, as Brimacombe steps into the role following the planned retirement of Paul Bakus in February 2026.
Brimacombe, who currently serves as President of Puratos USA, will also join the Puratos Group Executive Committee and report directly to CEO Pierre Tossut.
In his expanded role, Brimacombe will oversee Puratos’s business growth and strategic initiatives across these key markets during a time of increasing demand for innovative bakery and confectionery solutions.
His promotion reflects Puratos’ confidence in his leadership, citing his “customer-first approach” and proven track record in business transformation, operational excellence, and people development.
Since joining Puratos in 2018, Brimacombe has overseen a dynamic period of growth and innovation, including the launch of the company’s first U.S. Puratos Bakery School in Pennsauken, New Jersey.
His elevation to the North America presidency signals Puratos’ intent to accelerate sustainable development and innovation across the region, which includes the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Brimacombe’s global perspective is shaped by a career spanning Europe, Africa, and North America.
Prior to Puratos, he held senior roles at ARYZTA and consulting giants Accenture and Deloitte.
He is a Chartered Management Accountant and holds executive education credentials from Oxford University and The Wharton School.
Outgoing president Paul Bakus has led Puratos North America since 2018, following a distinguished 31-year career at Nestlé.
His tenure at Puratos has been marked by strategic expansion and a culture of excellence.
Bakus and Brimacombe will work closely during the transition to ensure continuity and momentum.
A search is currently underway for Brimacombe’s successor at Puratos USA, with an appointment expected in early 2026.
This leadership transition underscores Puratos’ commitment to long-term value creation and its mission to deliver innovative, high-quality ingredients to customers across the continent.
With Brimacombe at the top, the company is positioned to deepen its impact in the fast-evolving food industry, blending tradition with forward-thinking strategy.
Last month, Puratos expanded its global innovation footprint with new centers in Canada and Costa Rica.
Sign up to HERE receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.