GENERAL TOSHEVO, BULGARIA — Kalin Yonov has been named chief executive officer of Loulis Mills’ Bulgarian subsidiary, Loulis Mel Bulgaria.

Yonov began his new role on Feb. 1. He is responsible for implementing the board’s vision and strategy for the future growth of Loulis Mills in Bulgaria.

Loulis Mel Bulgaria is Loulis Mills’ flour mill in General Toshevo in northeast Bulgaria. The new operation launched in 2020, generated revenues of €6 million and processed 21,000 tonnes of wheat.

“I am very happy and excited to welcome Yonov in our group,” said Nikos Loulis, chairman of Loulis Mills. “Kalin has had a stellar professional career in reputable commodity related industries while his experience in high level functions can only add value to our business. Most importantly Kalin has a great character and work ethic, which ensure his fit within our organization. I am confident that with the great team that we have in Loulis Mel Bulgaria and the amazing support from our Loulis Mills SA team, Kalin will be able to guide the company forward.”

Yonov is graduate of Athens University of Economics and has held top leadership positions for more than 10 years at the Greek-Belgian metal group, Viohalco. He was also CEO of the Belovo Paper Mill SA, a producer of FMCG hygiene products.

“I am truly thrilled to enter the Loulis Group of companies,” Yonov said. “Loulis combines traditional family values with lean corporate structure, a winning recipe for high quality and customer satisfaction. Moving forward, my efforts will be concentrated on the deployment of a dynamic business plan which will reinforce the competitive position of Loulis Mel Bulgaria.”

Yonov succeeds Dimitris Tarnaras who has been promoted to group deputy CEO.

“I would also like to take the opportunity and thank Dimitris Tarnaras, who has handed over to Kalin Yonov,” Niko Loulis said. “Dimitris has been pivotal in setting up our Bulgarian subsidiary and its operations and has been a key piece for our success. I am looking forward to welcoming Dimitris back to Greece where he will be promoted to group deputy CEO.”

Tarnaras helped launch the Loulis Mel Bulgaria operation.

“It was both a privilege and a challenge to arrange the startup of our factory in Bulgaria,” Tarnaras said. “It was a unique experience, and we did amazing teamwork. Yonov counts on my full support for a smooth management transition, as I continue being part of the group serving as the group deputy CEO.”