The new structure should allow for increased engagement with customers to ensure that Leatherhead is responsive to their needs, the firm claimed.
Former head of food safety and product integrity at Leatherhead Chris Wells has been appointed to the new role of director of scientific and technical services.
He will be responsible for overseeing food safety, nutrition, reformulation, ingredients innovation and new product development at the Surrey-based research firm.
‘Delighted’
Wells said he was “delighted” with his new role and excited about the opportunity it created to use Leatherhead’s expertise to support the food and drink industry.
“The opportunity to drive greater synergies across our work in nutrition, reformulation and innovation will open up new technical solutions for the benefit of our customers,” he added.
The new leadership team also included the appointments of Sukh Gill as director of global regulatory services, Cindy Beeren as director of sensory, consumer and market insight and Shelley McPherson as head of human resources.
Alice Cadman will take on the role of director of business development and marketing and will lead an expanded team that puts the customer at the heart of Leatherhead’s activities, the firm claimed. All appointments are effective immediately.
Meanwhile, James Hiley will join the team as finance director in September once he has left his role as director of finance at the Royal Horticultural Society.
Leatherhead ceo Dr Geoff Spriegel said: “The success of Leatherhead depends critically on our ability to understand and communicate with our customers and members.
‘Opportunity’
“I see this restructure as a great opportunity to refocus our investment in the added value products and services that our customers tell us that they need.”
Current head of corporate services and crisis management, Professor Tony Hines, will take on the role of director of membership and crisis management.