Nestlé has appointed Scott Coles as the new managing director for its UK and Ireland confectionery division.

Coles is set to replace company veteran Mark Davies, who has stepped down following a 34-year stint with the FMCG giant.

In his new role, Coles is to join the Nestlé UK & Ireland leadership team, where he will spearhead the businesses efforts to expand market share and boost value within the confectionery sector.

Coles first joined the company in 1997, with a career spanning various roles across the UK food and beverage business, including customer management, commercial finance, and category development.

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Since 2018, he has led the coffee business across Central and West Africa and has held responsibility for consumer communications.

Coles said: “It’s an honour to lead the UK and Ireland Confectionery business at such an exciting time. With KitKat and Aero celebrating 90 years, I’ll be joining our exceptional confectionery team to celebrate these brilliant brands as they continue to thrive on their milestone anniversaries.

“I’m looking forward to supporting and championing the sustainability work done across the business, including the Income Accelerator Programme, which aims to increase cocoa farming families net income and promote good agricultural practices.”