The CEO of UK chemicals distributor and manufacturer Cornelius has stepped down after nearly 17 years with the business.
Darren Spiby, a former technology development manager at Boots, joined the firm as a Business Development Manager in 2004 before being appointed the groups’ CEO in 2016.
His role will be assumed by Cornelius’ Finance Director Philip Gibbons, who is expected to take up the position from 1 October.
“I have huge admiration for the work Darren has done for Cornelius and the dedication he has shown in leading the business to where it is today,” said Neville Prior, the company’s Chair.
“Darren has provided vision, strategic tenacity and huge strength in driving us to become a fully integrated manufacturer and distributor with innovation at its core.”
Speaking about Gibbons’ appointment, Prior said the group was “extremely fortunate” to have an individual “ready to step up into the group CEO role”.
He added: “Philip has been with us since 2017 managing the finance department, as well as having responsibility for our Russian business, the IT development and our recent successful ERP software implementation.
“With his deep insight and management of major projects, he is the ideal candidate to take over the reins.”