Puratos names new president of North American markets
Andy Brimacombe will assume the role on January 1 as part of a succession plan.
Image courtesy of Puratos
Puratos, a global leader in bakery, patisserie, and chocolate ingredients, has appointed Andy Brimacombe as president of North American markets, effective January 1, 2026. In his new role, Brimacombe will also join the Group Executive Committee, reporting directly to CEO Pierre Tossut.
Brimacombe’s appointment is part of a long-term succession plan, as Paul Bakus prepares to retire in February 2026 after a successful career in the global food industry and more than seven years leading Puratos’ North American region. Bakus and Brimacombe will work closely together during the transition to ensure a smooth handover.
“We are deeply grateful to Paul for his outstanding leadership, strategic vision, and the culture of excellence he has cultivated across North America,” says Tossut. “His decision to retire is well-deserved, and his legacy will continue to inspire us.”
Brimacombe currently serves as president of Puratos USA, where he has led a period of transformation and growth since 2018. His promotion supports Puratos’ strategy to accelerate innovation and sustainable development across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
“Andy has proven himself as a high-impact leader with a customer-first approach and a strong track record in business transformation, people development, and operational excellence,” adds Tossut. “His appointment reflects our confidence in his ability to scale our vision and create long-term value for our customers, partners, and communities throughout the region.”
Brimacombe is a graduate of the University of Manchester and is a chartered management accountant with executive education from Oxford University and the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business. He has held senior roles at ARYZTA and Accenture, and brings a global outlook shaped by experience across Europe, Africa, and North America.
Brimacombe’s appointment is part of a long-term succession plan, as Paul Bakus prepares to retire in February 2026 after a successful career in the global food industry and more than seven years leading Puratos’ North American region. Bakus and Brimacombe will work closely together during the transition to ensure a smooth handover.
“We are deeply grateful to Paul for his outstanding leadership, strategic vision, and the culture of excellence he has cultivated across North America,” says Tossut. “His decision to retire is well-deserved, and his legacy will continue to inspire us.”
Brimacombe currently serves as president of Puratos USA, where he has led a period of transformation and growth since 2018. His promotion supports Puratos’ strategy to accelerate innovation and sustainable development across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
“Andy has proven himself as a high-impact leader with a customer-first approach and a strong track record in business transformation, people development, and operational excellence,” adds Tossut. “His appointment reflects our confidence in his ability to scale our vision and create long-term value for our customers, partners, and communities throughout the region.”
Brimacombe is a graduate of the University of Manchester and is a chartered management accountant with executive education from Oxford University and the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business. He has held senior roles at ARYZTA and Accenture, and brings a global outlook shaped by experience across Europe, Africa, and North America.
A search is underway for the next president of Puratos USA, with an appointment expected in early 2026.
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