GraceKennedy Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

GraceKennedy has 6 executives leading key functions including finance, human resources, and marketing.

Driven by a legacy of innovation, GraceKennedy operates at the intersection of food and financial services, impacting markets through strategic growth and a commitment to excellence.

Leadership Roles at GraceKennedy

  • Group Chief Financial Officer - Andrew Messado
  • Divisional Chief Financial Officer - Debra Dodd
  • President, Grace Foods , Inc (Canada) - Nimal Amitirigala
  • Group Chief Human Resources Officer - Annette Morrison
  • Managing Director, Grace Foods Limited (Group Chief Marketing Officer) - Dave DaCosta
  • Group Chief Human Resources Officer - Cassida Jones
  • Andrew Messado - Group Chief Financial Officer

    Andrew Messado, the Group Chief Financial Officer at GraceKennedy, directs the conglomerate's overall financial strategy and performance. This leadership role involves overseeing all fiscal operations, including budgeting, financial planning, and investment management across both the food and financial sectors. Messado ensures robust financial controls and compliance, safeguarding the company's assets and optimizing profitability. His oversight extends to managing relationships with financial institutions and stakeholders, driving fiscal discipline throughout the organization. By analyzing market trends and economic conditions, Andrew Messado provides critical financial insights that inform strategic decision-making, supporting GraceKennedy's expansion initiatives and long-term financial stability. The Group Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include managing capital allocation and ensuring the efficient deployment of resources to achieve corporate objectives.

    Debra Dodd - Divisional Chief Financial Officer

    Debra Dodd, the Divisional Chief Financial Officer at GraceKennedy, spearheads financial operations for specific business units within the conglomerate. This critical position involves detailed financial analysis, performance reporting, and the implementation of financial strategies tailored to individual divisions, particularly within the food and financial industries. Dodd ensures that divisional financial activities align with the broader GraceKennedy financial framework, driving efficiency and profitability at a granular level. Her responsibilities include managing divisional budgets, forecasting financial outcomes, and identifying cost-saving opportunities. By collaborating closely with divisional leadership, Debra Dodd provides essential financial guidance to support operational excellence and strategic growth. The Divisional Chief Financial Officer's role is pivotal in maintaining financial health across diverse business segments.

    Nimal Amitirigala - President, Grace Foods , Inc (Canada)

    Nimal Amitirigala, the President, Grace Foods, Inc (Canada) at GraceKennedy, leads the strategic direction and operational execution for the company's food business within the Canadian market. This executive role involves overseeing all aspects of Grace Foods' operations in Canada, including sales, distribution, marketing, and product development tailored to local consumer preferences. Amitirigala drives initiatives to expand market penetration and strengthen GraceKennedy's brand presence in Canada, ensuring alignment with the conglomerate's global strategy. His leadership focuses on achieving revenue targets, optimizing supply chain efficiency, and fostering strong relationships with Canadian stakeholders and customers. By navigating the specific dynamics of the Canadian food industry, Nimal Amitirigala plays a pivotal role in the international growth of GraceKennedy's food portfolio.
    Nimal Amitirigala

    Annette Morrison - Group Chief Human Resources Officer

    Annette Morrison, the Group Chief Human Resources Officer at GraceKennedy, architects the company's human capital strategy across its diverse operations. This executive function encompasses talent acquisition, employee development, compensation and benefits, and fostering a positive organizational culture aligned with GraceKennedy's mission in the food and financial sectors. Morrison drives initiatives to enhance employee engagement, performance management, and leadership succession planning. Her oversight ensures compliance with labor laws and the implementation of best practices in human resources management throughout the organization. By focusing on workforce development and employee well-being, Annette Morrison supports the company's operational objectives and its commitment to its people. The Group Chief Human Resources Officer plays a vital role in building a skilled and motivated workforce.

    Dave DaCosta - Managing Director, Grace Foods Limited (Group Chief Marketing Officer)

    Dave DaCosta, the Managing Director, Grace Foods Limited (Group Chief Marketing Officer) at GraceKennedy, directs the strategic marketing and brand management for the company's food division, while also influencing broader group marketing efforts. This dual role involves developing and executing comprehensive marketing plans to drive consumer engagement and market share for GraceKennedy's food products across various regions. DaCosta oversees market research, product positioning, advertising campaigns, and digital marketing initiatives. His leadership ensures brand consistency and enhances the competitive edge of GraceKennedy's food offerings. By analyzing consumer insights and market trends, Dave DaCosta guides product innovation and market penetration strategies, directly contributing to revenue growth and brand loyalty. The Managing Director, Grace Foods Limited (Group Chief Marketing Officer) is key to expanding the company's market presence.

    Cassida Jones - Group Chief Human Resources Officer

    Cassida Jones, the Group Chief Human Resources Officer at GraceKennedy, collaborates on shaping the human resources landscape across the conglomerate. This executive role focuses on developing and implementing strategic HR policies and programs that support GraceKennedy's objectives in both the food and financial industries. Jones contributes to talent management, organizational development, and employee relations, ensuring a cohesive and productive work environment. Her responsibilities include fostering a culture of continuous learning and performance excellence, aligning HR initiatives with business goals. By driving initiatives related to employee engagement and retention, Cassida Jones supports the overall health and growth of the organization. The Group Chief Human Resources Officer's efforts are crucial for maintaining a strong and adaptable workforce.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Holding Companies & Conglomerates

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding GraceKennedy Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads GraceKennedy?
    GraceKennedy is led by Andrew Messado (Group Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Debra Dodd (Divisional Chief Financial Officer) and Nimal Amitirigala (President, Grace Foods , Inc (Canada)).
    Who is part of GraceKennedy’s executive team?
    The executive team of GraceKennedy includes leaders such as Andrew Messado (Group Chief Financial Officer), Debra Dodd (Divisional Chief Financial Officer), Nimal Amitirigala (President, Grace Foods , Inc (Canada)) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does GraceKennedy have?
    GraceKennedy has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in GraceKennedy’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of GraceKennedy includes roles such as Group Chief Financial Officer, Divisional Chief Financial Officer, President, Grace Foods , Inc (Canada), Group Chief Human Resources Officer, Managing Director, Grace Foods Limited (Group Chief Marketing Officer).