Devro plc, the world's leading manufacturer of collagen products for the food industry, today announces the appointment of Peter Page as Chief Executive. He will join the Board of Devro and assume the role of Chief Executive on 1 June, 2007. Dr Graeme Alexander will step down from his role as Chief Executive on this date, but in order to support an orderly transition, will continue in an advisory capacity on the Board at Devro until 31 August 2007.
Peter Page, 43, is currently Group Vice President, Europe of Aviagen Group, the market leading poultry breeding company. At Aviagen he has played a pivotal role in significantly developing the pan-European business, through acquisition, integration and organic growth. Prior to joining Aviagen in 2003, he was Executive Director of Adnams plc, the regional brewer, for four years. At Adnams, he was credited with the successful turnaround of the Retail and Hotel business, as well as for his part in the overall strategic direction of the company.
Peter Page has a BSc degree from London University and an MBA from The Open University Business School. He is married, with four children.
Commenting on this announcement, Pat Barrett, Chairman of Devro plc, said:
"I am delighted to announce the appointment of Peter Page as Graeme Alexander's successor. After a rigorous selection process the Board was impressed with his leadership skills and his extensive international experience in the food industry focussing on business-to-business marketing, which will enable Peter to make a significant contribution to Devro from the outset."
Peter Page said,
"I am very pleased to be joining Devro and I look forward to an exciting future here. I am most impressed by everything that has been built up so successfully by Graeme Alexander and his colleagues over the past two decades. Whilst we will face significant challenges in very demanding markets, I am confident that Devro's innovative casings, supported by excellent staff throughout the company, will continue to gain new business and outpace competitors. I will share my experience of international markets and business development to encourage an already strong management team."
There are no details that are required to be disclosed under paragraph 9.6.13 (2)-(6) of the Listing Rules of the UK Listing Authority.