New CEO for Blue Lake Milling, WA oats facility operational

The CBH Group is pleased to announce the appointment of a new Chief Executive Officer for its oats milling and processing subsidiary Blue Lake Milling (BLM).

Following an extensive search and selection process, Kevin Boyle will commence in the role on 20 August 2018, succeeding Ben Abbot who stepped down last month.

Mr Boyle brings more than 20 years’ experience in manufacturing from the fast-moving consumer goods, defence and automotive sectors. He has successfully improved safety outcomes, increased operational efficiency, built strong customer relationships, developed successful long-term business strategies and driven strong commercial outcomes. 

BLM is a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBH and a manufacturer of premium Australian oat products with operations in South Australia and Victoria. Its head office is in Bordertown, South Australia.

Mr Boyle’s appointment comes as BLM commences operations of its new 60,000 tonne oat processing facility at CBH’s Metro Grain Centre in Forrestfield, Western Australia, following a successful commissioning process.

The new facility will enable BLM to service a growing export demand for oat products.

CBH Chief Executive Officer Jimmy Wilson thanked Mr Abbot for his work in the transition of BLM to a CBH company following its acquisition in 2015, and congratulated Mr Boyle on his appointment.

“BLM is an important investment for CBH and as such we want to make sure we have the best available person to lead the business and continue to grow opportunities within domestic and international oat product markets,” Mr Wilson said.

“Kevin’s experience in implementing lean operating processes and continuous improvement practises, as well as developing high performing teams, will position him well to lead the BLM team.”

Kevin Boyle profile:

Kevin Boyle has held senior leadership roles in manufacturing across a variety of organisations and industries including fast-moving consumer goods, defence and automotive. His most recent roles were Chief Operating Officer of Quickstep Holdings, a global provider of advanced composite solutions, and Director, Manufacturing Advisory, at specialist advisory and restructuring firm McGrathNicol.