Van der Eems replaced Martin Glenn, who left to join the Football Association in April 2015.
UB executive chairman Jim Zaza will assume responsibility for the ceo role for the foreseeable future.
Jeff van der Eems had previously worked as ceo for UB’s international business.
UB is owned by Turkey’s largest food group Yildiz Holding after agreeing a purchase deal in November 2014.
‘A valued servant of UB’
Yildiz Holding chairman Murat Ülker said: “Jeff has been a valued servant of UB for the past 11 years.
“I thank Jeff personally for his tireless commitment to revitalising UB and ensuring a smooth integration with Yildiz Holding during his tenure. I wish him all the best with his future endeavours.”
Van der Eems said: “It has been a distinct pleasure to lead UB during a period where we re-established our presence on the world stage.
Having secured the sale and transition to Yildiz Holding, it is an opportune time for me to step down from the ceo role and pursue other opportunities.”
Zaza has served as executive vice chairman and global chief operating officer at Yildiz Holding, director of the board and executive vice chairman at Godiva.
‘Perfectly placed’
Commenting on Zaza’s wider responsibilities Ülker said: “Jim’s experience and track record for success ensure that he is perfectly placed to help continue to drive success at UB.”
Meanwhile, UB confirmed last week it planned to restart production at its flood-hit Carlisle production plant.
The plant was devastated by floods on December 5, when several feet of floodwater in the factory, caused by Storm Desmond, damaged the site’s electrical equipment and ovens.
The shutdown affected brands such as McVitie’s, Jacob’s, Carr’s and Crawford’s, resulting in many retailers to report they had run out of stocks.