Josie McLean steps up to be Natoora's UK managing director

Fresh produce supplier Natoora has appointed Josie McLean as its first managing director for the UK region.

McLean will bring hands-on hospitality experience to the role, which is expected to complement the company's international strategy for sustainable food sourcing. Under her guidance, the food firm's UK operations will focus on expanding its network of farmers and producers, enhancing customer experience and furthering innovation in sustainable food distribution.

Since joining Natoora four years ago, McLean has progressed through the ranks, starting out as an account manager and growing into a role as head of customer relations. Prior to her Natoora tenure, she held positions across the hospitality sector for over 15 years, from running pop-ups to working as restaurant and operations manager for London restaurants including Artusi and Florence Knight's Polpetto.

Franco Fubini, chief executive and founder of Natoora, said: "With her extensive background in hospitality and a proven track record within Natoora, she is the ideal person to steer our UK operations. Her role will be crucial in strengthening our focus in the UK, ensuring that our founding region continues to flourish independently alongside our international operations."

McClean identified the new UK head role as both a professional challenge and a personal commitment to "supporting sustainable, transparent and responsible food production, as well as a real opportunity to ensure we can provide the best service for our incredible customers, both within hospitality and our retailers".

The appointment comes after Natoora expanded its operations from its original base in London to international operations in New York, Melbourne, Copenhagen and Paris since 2017.