Leadership transition prepares the portfolio of authentic fine meats, charcuterie, and specialty snacking products for the next phase of growth.
[New York, NY] — June 19, 2025 — Village Gourmet, a leader in fine meats, charcuterie, and specialty snacking products, today announced that Jim Leighton has been appointed Chief Executive Officer, effective June 9, 2025. As part of the leadership transition, David Kemp will continue to serve on the company's Board of Directors and remain a partner in the business, where he will continue contributing to Village Gourmet's long-term vision and strategy.
Village Gourmet is the parent company of several well-known specialty brands, including Three Little Pigs, Fabrique Délices, Longhini Sausage, Uncle Charley's Sausage Co., and Esposito's Finest Quality Sausage., which are recognized for their culinary craftsmanship, quality sourcing, and strong customer loyalty across retail and foodservice.
With over 30 years of leadership experience, Jim Leighton brings deep experience growing food and consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies through operational excellence, brand innovation, and market expansion. A proven business builder and transformational leader, Leighton has held senior executive roles at Perdue Farms, Boulder Brands, Ingham's Group and ConAgra Foods. "Jim's proven ability to lead purpose-driven food companies and deliver results makes him the ideal leader for Village Gourmet as we enter our next phase of growth," said David Kemp.
Under Jim's leadership, the company plans to build on its reputation for quality and authenticity while continuing to explore new growth opportunities in fine meats, charcuterie, and specialty snacking products. "We also want to extend our heartfelt thanks to David for his leadership and vision over the past decade, bringing together and scaling five authentic heritage brands to shape what we now proudly know as Village Gourmet,” said Jim Leighton. “I am looking forward to working side by side with David to ensure a smooth and seamless transition.”
“I’m honored to join a company with such strong brands and dedicated people,” said Leighton. “Village Gourmet has a unique place in the market, and I look forward to working with the team to continue delivering excellence for our customers and partners.”
Village Gourmet will exhibit at the 2025 Summer Fancy Food Show, taking place June 29–July 1 at the Javits Center in New York City. Chief Executive Officer Jim Leighton and Board Member David Kemp will be on-site at Village Gourmet Booth #765 to welcome customers and industry colleagues throughout the show.
About Village Gourmet
Village Gourmet is a producer of premium authentic branded and private-label fine meats, charcuterie, and specialty snacking products. Village Gourmet offers products through five specialty brands, including Three Little Pigs, Fabrique Délices, Longhini Sausage, Uncle Charley's Sausage Co., and Esposito's Finest Quality Sausage. Visit: www.village-gourmet.com.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Claudia Dionne
Director of Marketing
claudiad@village-gourmet.com
www.village-gourmet.com