Vimto owner Nichols has appointed former Marks & Spencer and Tesco executive Laura Padfield as an independent non-executive director.

Padfield will join the soft drinks group’s board on 1 September, replacing Helen Keays, who is stepping down after nine years.

She will also become chair of Nichols’ remuneration committee and join its audit and nominations committees.

Padfield is currently chief executive of veterinary care provider IVC Evidensia’s Irish business and has held a series of senior leadership positions across consumer-facing companies.

Her previous retail roles at Marks & Spencer and Tesco gave her experience spanning strategy, customer experience, organisational development, logistics, supply chain and international operations.

Nichols said Padfield’s background would complement the skills of its existing directors and strengthen the board as it pursues its long-term growth strategy.

Nichols chair Liz McMeikan said: “On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Helen for her valued contribution to Nichols and warmly welcome Laura as she joins us at an exciting stage in the group’s continued development.

“I look forward to the benefit that Laura’s breadth and depth of experience will bring to the board.”

Keays will leave Nichols on 31 August and step down as chair of its remuneration committee and a member of all board committees.

The company thanked her for her contribution, highlighting her role in strengthening its governance framework during her nine-year tenure.

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