GLENDALE, CALIF. – Paul Grimwood has been appointed chairman and chief executive officer of Nestle USA. He will replace Brad Alford, who is retiring in October.

Mr. Grimwood is currently c.e.o. of Nestle U.K. and Ireland, a position he has held since January 2009. Prior to taking the reins of the U.K. and Ireland business unit, Mr. Grimwood led Nestle’s U.K. confectionery business.

Mr. Alford has been with Nestle for 32 years, including nearly seven years as chairman and c.e.o. of Nestle USA. He was market head of Nestle Oceania and in the United States led many businesses during his career, including Nestle FoodServices, confections and snacks and Nestle brands before being named to his current role in late 2005.