Retiring CHRO of GKL, Naomi Holness, celebrated for her invaluable contributions.

GraceKennedy Limited (GKL) has announced the appointment of Annette Morrison as its new Group Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) and member of its Executive Committee, effective January 3, 2024. The Company has also expressed its deep appreciation to outgoing CHRO of GKL, Naomi Holness, who retired from her role on December 31, 2023.

Morrison rejoins GraceKennedy with a wealth of expertise and a deep understanding of its business, having first joined the Company in 2012. During her first tenure, she played a pivotal role in the Hardware & Lumber turnaround and divestment, and later led GK’s Talent and Global Mobility functions while overseeing HR for the GK Corporate Office and GK Capital Management. She also brought her expertise to the Group’s insurance segment and supported its acquisition of Consumer Brands Limited.

Annette Morrison has been appointed Group Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) and a member of GraceKennedy Ltd’s Executive Committee, effective January 3, 2024.
Naomi Holness has retired from her role as Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) of GraceKennedy Limited effective December 31, 2023

After leaving GK in 2018, Morrison held the position of Group Head of People & Internal Communication at Wisynco before relocating to Barbados in January 2022, where she assumed the post of Director, Shared Services at Barbados Light & Power Company (BLPC). Her portfolio responsibilities at BLPC included HR along with Strategy, Information Communication Technology, Facilities and Business Continuity.

“I am pleased to welcome Annette back to our GK Family,” said GraceKennedy Group CEO Don Wehby. “Her leadership and insights will be invaluable as we navigate the exciting journey towards achieving our 2030 vision of being the number one Caribbean brand in the world.”

With a Master’s in Human Resource Management, Bachelor’s in Psychology and Management, and Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR) certification, Morrison brings a powerful combination of academic and practical expertise to her new role.

Wehby also expressed his gratitude to Naomi Holness, who has served as CHRO of GKL for the past five years. During her over 19 years with the Company, Holness was a dedicated champion of the GK team, playing a critical role in supporting the Group and Foods Divisions’ strategic growth and navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are grateful for Naomi’s invaluable contributions to GraceKennedy,” said Wehby. “Throughout her tenure she has fostered inclusivity, growth, and excellence, and her ability to meaningfully connect with our team at all levels has enriched our company culture.”

Holness will transition into a consultancy role for GK Foods until a Divisional CHRO is appointed.

“As we welcome Annette and celebrate Naomi’s legacy, I am confident that GraceKennedy will continue to build a culture of excellence through great people in 2024 and beyond,” said Wehby.