Employee-owned business WCF has made a key appointment as part of its commitment to long-term success and innovation.
Andrew Mochrie has joined WCF as chief operating officer, bringing fresh perspectives and expertise to the business. His experience spans manufacturing, law, logistics and high-end retail.
A chartered management accountant, Andy previously served as logistics director at END, where he was part of the leadership team during the business’s successful sale to Carlyle.
Andy said: “WCF is a fascinating company operating in a broad variety of sectors. Having worked in different ownership structures, I’m excited to bring a new perspective to an employee-led model. The culture here is remarkable; it’s no surprise WCF has a Great Place to Work accreditation. When you see employees with up to 48 years of service, it speaks volumes about the values and legacy of the business.
“I see my role as contributing to strategic projects and risk management to support sustainable growth for our shareholders, utilising my experiences to support the Board, and to provide leadership and support to the teams across the business.
“Success, to me, is about helping the company evolve and adapt to the ever-changing social and economic landscape, and protecting the company’s legacy for future generations, ensuring we don’t take risks that could undermine it.
“Unlike traditional corporate environments that often drive Executives to prioritise short-term gains, WCF places equal emphasis on long-term value creation, on respecting its heritage, and on building a future that aligns with its unique employee-ownership ethos.”
He will have executive responsibility for WCF’s Pet and Equestrian and Home Shopping businesses, spending significant time at the company’s headquarters at Brampton.
To facilitate Andrew’s appointment, WCF has also announced other key leadership changes:
- Phil Murray has been promoted to chief executive officer, taking on responsibility for the overall direction and performance of the business, including governance and risk management.
- Jo Ritzema transitions to executive chair of the board, focusing on strategic development and rebuilding the company’s acquisition pipeline while retaining leadership of specific business areas, including its three five-star camping and glamping sites, and North Yorkshire-based Bella di Notte.
Jo said: “At WCF, we value promoting talent from within, but sometimes the right external candidate brings a fresh mindset and skills.
“Andy’s broad experience across industries and leadership of large teams makes him a perfect fit for WCF’s culture and growth ambitions. Our first executive board meeting with Andy on board was fantastic, and I am confident he will help take WCF to new heights.”
WCF’s commitment to fostering a collaborative and employee-focused culture continues to set it apart. The leadership changes reflect WCF’s focus on sustainable, long-term development as an employee-owned business. The company is committed to empowering its nearly 400 employee-owners to shape the future of the business.
Jo added: “Andy’s insightful questions are already opening our eyes to new possibilities. It’s incredible how much you just do what you do, and only when someone asks ‘why?’ do you pause and reflect. We are all thrilled to have Andy on the team and look forward to the impact his experience and fresh perspective will bring.
“WCF is built on a legacy of resilience, innovation, and collaboration, and I am excited for the journey ahead.”
