Expanding chocolatier appoints new CFO

Hotel Chocolat has announced the appointment of Jon Akehurst as the company’s chief financial officer (CFO) and as an executive board director, as the retailer looks to expand.

Akehurst is a chartered accountant who has worked in management and leadership roles with General Mills, Mars, Aggreko and most recently as CFO at Terumo Corporation. His previous work has given him experience working in branded goods, manufacturing and international development.

Following an announcement made in December, Matt Pritchard has now stepped down as CFO after nine years with Hotel Chocolat. The company’s co-founder and chartered accountant Peter Harris will become interim CFO until Akehurst’s arrival.

Hotel Chocolat recently revealed plans to open 50 new UK stores after a period of strong trading.