Hamlyn Jailal named NFM chairman

National Flour Mills (NFM) has ushered in new leadership with the appointment of Hamlyn Jailal as chairman during the company’s 52nd annual general meeting held on December 30 at Hilton Trinidad. The announcement was formally confirmed through the company’s official social media channels on December 31.

Jailal assumes the leadership position alongside ten other newly appointed directors: Alimuddin Mohammed, Sudesh Jai Ramkissoon, Dixie-Ann Williams-James, Luanna Natalie Taylor, George Smith, Ganesh Saroop, Stephen Young, Nicholas Rampersad, and Robert Badal. This reconstituted board brings diverse expertise to guide NFM’s strategic direction.

The newly appointed chairman possesses an impressive academic background, holding a bachelor’s degree in history with social sciences from the University of the West Indies, an associate degree in communications, and a theology degree from Ambassador University in Los Angeles, California. Jailal previously demonstrated his leadership capabilities as chairman of the National Insurance Property Development Company Ltd from 2010 to 2015.

NFM emphasized in its official statement that the newly formed board collectively possesses substantial knowledge and professional expertise to steer the company toward sustainable growth, innovation, and organizational learning. The company highlighted its critical role in strengthening national food security while maintaining operational efficiency as a key priority.

The leadership transition occurs against the backdrop of robust financial performance. NFM’s latest financial report for the year ending September 30, 2025, reveals impressive results: $39.7 million in profit after tax for the third quarter. The company achieved revenue growth to $401 million, compared to $386 million during the corresponding period previous year. Operating profit surged by nine percent to reach $50 million.

Former chairman Ashmeer Mohammed, commenting on these results prior to the leadership transition, attributed the company’s success to strategic initiatives including the revitalization of its Ibis brand and the introduction of innovative products designed to better satisfy consumer demands. Additionally, NFM has witnessed substantial growth in feed sales following formula modifications and the launch of specialized feed products targeting key market segments.