Leading UK-based fresh produce company Fresca Group has announced a number of changes to its board, with effect from 1 April 2010, including the appointment of a former Tesco buyer as well as a lawyer specialising in corporate acquisitions.
The changes follow the decision of Amanda Burton to step down as a non-executive director after a period of almost 12 years with the company.
Chris Mack, executive chairman of Fresca Group, wished Ms Burton well in her new role as director of global business services at law firm Clifford Chance.
'Amanda has been a valuable part of the advisory team and has made a significant contribution to the board during a period of rapid growth and change in the company,' he said.
In the meantime, Fresca has added two new non-executive directors, Elizabeth McMeikan and Simon Hodson.
Ms McMeikan brings with her a wealth of experience in marketing, retail and human resources: having started out with Colgate-Palmolive, she subsequently built a very successful career with retail group Tesco, whom she joined as marketing manager for fresh produce before going on to peform a number of buying roles.
She has also worked as managing director of Tesco Express as well as HR stores board director at the supermarket giant.
Most recently, Ms McMeikan enjoyed a distinguished term as a Civil Service Commissioner and holds non-executive director positions with JD Wetherspoon and Direct Wines. She also chairs the membership selection panel for Network Rail.
Simon Hodson, meanwhile, is senior partner with law firm Beachcroft, specialising in corporate law. His career with Beachcroft has spanned more than 25 years, during which time he has developed a particular focus on private company acquisitions.
Through his previous work as a lawyer for Fresca Group, Mr Hodson already knows the group well and is therefore well-placed to advise on its structure and strategy.
Mr Mack was understandably pleased with the new appointments: 'It's a pleasure to welcome Elizabeth and Simon to Fresca Group. The board is going to benefit greatly from the input of these very well-respected, dynamic professionals.'
He added: 'Our industry is going through a constant transition in a challenging retail climate, and we need to embrace fresh ideas and new modes of operation. Elizabeth and Simon will be a valuable asset to Fresca, helping to ensure our continued success.'
The Fresca Group board
Paul Butlin – managing director, Mack Wholesale
Ian Craig – managing director, Thanet Earth Marketing
Simon Hodson – non-executive director
David Lloyd – managing director, Mack Multiples
Christopher Mack – executive chairman
Elizabeth McMeikan – non-executive director
Mike Musk – group finance director
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