Spar recruits internally as marketing chief quits

Spar UK marketing controller Susan Darbyshire is to replace Neil Henry as marketing director at the 2,674-strong convenience store chain.

Henry, who has been with the company for five years, will next month take up the post of group marketing director for an unnamed home improvement retail chain based in Cheshire.

Darbyshire has worked at Spar UK for three years, having started as brand manager, before taking on the role of marketing controller 18 months ago.

She had responsibility for Spar’s marketing and PR strategy and was also involved in the introduction of the ready-meal range.

Managing director Morton Middleditch says: “Darbyshire’s work on Spar brands has demonstrated that she has a natural flair for marketing and promotion.

“I am confident she will direct the overall Spar marketing plan with the same enthusiasm.

“We are sorry to lose Henry.”