He replaces Herwig Vennekens who has been promoted to the position of MD for the wider Haribo group after 10 years in the role, responsible for sales and marketing globally.
The former sales director for the UK and Ireland worked on the strategic introduction of Haribo’s new sugar-reduced line Fruitilicious and supported the relaunch of Supermix.
Hughes studied at London Business School and has worked for leading fast-moving consumer goods businesses including Kimberley Clark Corporation, Heineken UK and Red Bull UK.
‘It's a great privilege’
Commenting on his new position, Hughes said: “It's a great privilege to be appointed to the role of managing director for such a fun and iconic brand.
“I am very much looking forward to working with our teams in the UK and in Ireland to support the continued growth of the business by driving the category forward in a responsible way.”
Vennekens thanked Hughes for his support to the business in his sales director role and said he was ideally placed to lead the UK and Ireland team.
He added: “Jon will be instrumental as we maintain our market leading position and support the continued growth of the Haribo brand and business.”
700 team members
Launching into the UK market in 1972, Haribo operates two manufacturing facilities in West Yorkshire, which are home to more than 700 team members.
There have been a number of moves in the food and drink manufacturing sector over the past month.
This week saw, Diageo GB MD Charles Ireland announce that he is to step down from his role after 20 years with the company.
Meanwhile, last week, Scottish food ingredients manufacturer Macphie appointed Andy Stapley as its new chief executive, effective immediately.