Scottish butchers and Royal Warrant holder, Donald Russell, has appointed former Morrisons marketing director, Mike Hoban, as its new chief executive.

As well as Morrisons, Hoban has also represented British Airways, Confused.com and Scottish Widows in a number of senior roles.

Speaking on his appointment, Hoban said: “I’m delighted to be joining such an exciting business that has huge growth potential, and to be working with such a passionate team.  Trust in quality, the importance of taste, and simplicity and reliability of service, are ever more important in the food industry, and I’m committed to adding value to that story and the business capabilities to deliver results.”

George Vestey, CEO of Donald Russell’s parent company Vestey Holdings, added: “Mike is the strategic leader our business needs to deliver our next stage of organisational and operational change, whilst providing direction for the recently strengthened board.  We are thrilled that he is joining us at this time, in order to maximise the opportunities for our future growth.

“With a strong track record of championing customer service and engaged, motivated, focused teams, we are looking forward to seeing the results he will deliver for our customers across the trade and export sectors, as well as direct to consumer. We have seen some strong business results recently for our direct to consumer service, and the opportunity to push this further forward will play well with Mike’s experience at shaping, delivering and maintaining positive change.”