Notcutts this week announced a number of senior management changes as it gears up its succession plan for the business.
Nick Kirkbride has been appointed to the board of the company as chief executive officer (designate) before taking on his duties fully next year.

Mr Kirkbride was previously managing director of Scotts UK, the garden and plant care company. He was also md of Virgin Cola and more recently A Nelson Ltd, a natural healthcare company.

William Notcutt will become deputy chairman during 2007 and will progressively take over responsibility for property and other matters from Charles Notcutt.

Charles Notcutt, who stood down as chairman at the end of May this year, is to retire in the summer of 2008, having completed 50 years of service.

He will become president of the company.