Allen helmed Dairy Crest from 2007 to 2019 and led the sale of the dairy processor to Canadian firm Saputo two years ago.
In addition, Allen has held non-executive roles at Howden Joinery Group, Dairy UK and Warburtons, as well as Norcros where he was Chair from July 2020 until April 2021. He is currently Non-Executive Chairman of Halo Foods Ltd.
Allen is to succeed current chairman John Nicolson, who will step down from the board prior to the next annual general meeting in May 2022 after seven years in the role.
Zoe Howorth appointment
AG Barr also announced that Zoe Howorth will join the board as a non-executive director from 1 July 2021.
Another food and drink industry veteran, Howorth has held a number of senior roles at United Biscuits and The Coca-Cola Company, where she held the role of UK marketing director from 2010 to 2013. As part of her responsibilities, Howorth will chair the Board’s Environmental, Social and Governance Committee.
This month will also see non-executive director Pam Powell stand down from the board as part of AG Barr’s long term board succession plan.
Shaping the direction of AG Barr
Commenting on the changes, John Nicolson said: “I would personally like to thank Pam Powell for her valuable contribution over the past eight years in helping to shape the direction and performance of the business.”
“I am delighted that both Mark and Zoe will be joining our Board, both of whom bring a wealth of highly relevant experience and I look forward to welcoming them at this exciting time for AG Barr.”
Meanwhile, David Flower – former Kerry Foods managing director for home baking – has joined functional ingredients group Nandi Proteins as its new chief executive.
Commenting on his appointment, Flower said: “I am delighted to be taking this leadership role for Nandi Proteins at such crucial time in the Company’s development.
“Against a backdrop of increasing consumer awareness of how important a healthy diet is and of the role of proteins within it, the Nandi offering is very relevant.”
