A former Wm Morrison executive touted for years as its next boss is joining the business empire of the entrepreneur informally known as ‘the chicken king’.

Sky News understands that Trevor Strain, who left Morrisons last year, has become portfolio director at Ranjit Singh Boparan’s private office.

Mr Strain will oversee assets including the poultry supplier Bernard Matthews and restaurant chains Carluccio’s and Giraffe.

Among the other brands owned by Mr Boparan’s private office are Elkes Biscuits and the casual dining operations Gourmet Burger Kitchen, Slim Chicken, Ed’s Easy Diner, Fishworks and the London-based Cinnamon Collection.

Mr Strain will not be focused on the day-to-day running of the businesses, but on growth opportunities for the portfolio of companies.

His role is separate to 2 Sisters Food Group, Mr Boparan’s poultry empire, which supplies the major UK grocery chains.

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Mr Strain is the latest supermarket executive to work with Mr Boparan, following Justin King, the former J Sainsbury boss, and Laurie McIlwee, the former Tesco executive.

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A former Tesco employee, Mr Strain stepped down from his role at Morrisons in September 2022 after 13 years with the company, working as chief operating officer since October 2019.

Mr Boparan said: “I am delighted that Trevor has joined the Boparan Private Office.

“This is a full-time appointment and as part of BPO senior executive team he will be focused on growth opportunities for our portfolio of businesses.”

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