Jonathan Warburton

Jonathan Warburton has served as Chairman of the family business since 2001, guiding its transformation into a nationally recognised brand. After gaining valuable experience in the baking industry and developing his sales and marketing expertise at Unilever, Jonathan Warburton joined Warburtons at age 23. He advanced through key roles, including National Account Manager, Sales Director, and Marketing Director, where he led the creation of the company’s iconic TV advertising campaigns featuring the Warburton family.

As a fifth-generation member of the family, Jonathan Warburton, alongside cousins Brett and Ross, took over the business in 1991 following their fathers’ retirement. Over the next decade, he served as joint Managing Director and Commercial Director, helping to craft a strategy that expanded Warburtons from a regional to a truly national brand, with the vision of becoming Britain’s Favourite Baker.

Under his leadership as Chairman, Warburtons’ turnover has more than tripled to over £750 million, and the number of bakery and distribution sites has increased by more than 40%. Today, Warburtons stands as the only British FMCG company with retail sales exceeding £1 billion.

In addition to his role at Warburtons, Jonathan Warburton was appointed trustee and director of The Royal Countryside Fund in April 2024 and serves on its Development Committee. His previous Board experience includes 20 years as a non-Executive Director at Samworth Brothers Limited and three years at AG Barr Plc. He was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from Manchester University in 2003.

Outside of business, Jonathan Warburton is an enthusiastic sportsman, enjoying skiing and golf. He is married to Kim, and together they have four children: Charlotte, twins Harry and Jack, and Angus.