Luke Jensen, the departing CEO of Ocado Solutions, has been appointed as executive chairman at Hana Group, highlighting his significant industry experience.
- Jensen has held a non-executive director role at Hana Group since 2015, contributing to the company’s strategic development within the Sushi Gourmet brand.
- He will work closely with Hana Group’s CEO, Ed Romero, to drive global strategy and operations with a focus on transformative growth.
- Jensen’s previous achievements at Ocado Solutions, including global expansion initiatives, underpin his new leadership role.
- Steve Dacus, the outgoing chairman, supports Jensen’s appointment citing his transformative track record as a valuable asset.
Luke Jensen’s appointment as executive chairman at Hana Group marks a strategic move within the global market for sushi and pan-Asian cuisine. Having announced his departure from Ocado Solutions as CEO effective 30 September, Jensen brings extensive leadership and industry knowledge to his new role. Previously, he played a pivotal role as a non-executive director at Hana Group, focusing on strengthening the company’s position in the market.
Jensen’s tenure at Ocado since 2017 has been marked by significant milestones that include spearheading the company’s first international partnership with Bon Preu, Spain, and expanding its reach with a consequential agreement in Korea with Lotte. His extensive career, including his role as group development director at Sainsbury’s, positions him well for the challenges of his new position at Hana Group.
Working alongside Hana Group CEO Ed Romero, Jensen is expected to bring his strategic acumen to further develop the organisation’s global strategy and operations. His appointment is anticipated to foster increased innovation and consumer engagement within Hana Group’s brand portfolio, notably Sushi Gourmet, which is already established within major retailers like Sainsbury’s.
Steve Dacus, the outgoing chairman who will remain as a non-executive director, has endorsed Jensen, acknowledging their collaboration over the past four years. Dacus highlighted Jensen’s transformational expertise and operational insights as pivotal resources for Hana Group’s next growth phase.
Jensen himself has expressed enthusiasm about his new role, citing the rising global demand for healthy, convenient meal options like sushi. He emphasised Hana Group’s commitment to innovation and service as critical to its market leadership. Moreover, Jensen noted the company’s active exploration of mergers and acquisitions to accelerate growth, signalling a bold strategic direction.
Luke Jensen’s transition to Hana Group is poised to drive significant growth and innovation within the pan-Asian cuisine market.