Unitas Wholesale has today announced the appointment of Mark Aylwin as non-executive Chairman. With a vast amount of experience across the sector including wholesale, retail, foodservice and on trade, Aylwin will bring a new perspective to the business having been in the food and drink industry for over 35 years.
Earlier this year as part of a review of the Group’s strategy moving forward, it was agreed by the board that now is the right time for the Group to transition to a non-member Chair and following a high calibre selection process, Mark has agreed to accept the role commencing in April 2021.
A key appointment for the Group, Mark will join the recently appointed MD John Kinney, and an already strong board at a time when the organisation is doubling down on driving the strategic direction of the Group, accelerating the current strong sales performance across the retail, and cash and carry channels, as well as developing and implementing a fast start recovery plan for the out of home channel as lockdown restrictions ease and the channel begins to reopen after the significant challenges it has faced during the pandemic.
As John Kinney explains, “Mark is a great appointment for Unitas Wholesale and is a hugely positive move forward demonstrating the strong intentions of the Group. Mark brings a wealth of experience to the role that will be incredibly useful as we drive the organisation into its next phase of development and both myself and the board look forward to welcoming Mark when he begins his tenure in April”
Mark Aylwin commented; “I am really looking forward to joining Unitas Wholesale to support John and the board in the next phase of its journey. While there are a number of significant challenges in the out of home market, I am excited to be joining the Group at a time when I believe we can make a real difference to our Unitas Wholesale members and their customers”.
Simon Hannah, current Chair of the Group and Managing Director of Filshill Wholesale, Scotland will stand down from his position following a brief handover period with Mark, however, he will remain on the board, Simon commented “While I have been extremely proud to be the Chairman of Unitas Wholesale, I am delighted that Mark has agreed to join us as our new Chair. Moving to a non-member Chair will bring new insights and strategic direction, and together with John Kinney puts Unitas in a strong position to move forward with the next stage in the development of the Group for the benefit of our members, our customers and supplier partners.
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