New boss for Arla

ARLA FOODS UK has decided to appoint Tim Smith as the new chief executive when Neil Davidson steps down in June, three months ahead of schedule.

Mr Smith is already serving as an executive on the dairy company’s board of directors, having joined Express Dairies in 1999.

He will take over the top spot on June 1, said chairman Sir David Naish, because the board felt an internal appointee could begin sooner than planned.

Mr Davidson had planned to stay on until September, but will now act as a consultant to finish specific projects.

“We are delighted with the appointment of Tim as chief executive,” said Sir David.

“After Neil informed the Board of his retirement, it was felt appropriate to conduct a full review of potential candidates.

“After extensive research and the use of outside consultants, the board unanimously decided because of Tim’s experience, leadership qualities and industry knowledge that an internal appointment was the correct route to follow.”

Hanne Sondergaard and Martin Gilbert will also join the board on the same date as executive directors of marketing and operations respectively.