PZ Cussons selects UK managing director

British soap manufacturer PZ Cussons has appointed Bob Jones as managing director for the UK. Jones, formerly international brand director of the group’s marketing department, replaces David Whitewood, who has been made group sourcing director.

UK marketing director Dominic Box will report to Jones.

In September, the manufacturer of Imperial Leather acquired the Original Source hair and body care brand from Health & Beauty Solutions. The Original Source brand includes the Original Peppermint Source bath and shower products and the Original Orange Source range.

In the same month, the company also announced a 12 per cent hike in profits for the year to May 31. The Imperial Leather sponsorship of 2002 Manchester Commonwealth Games helped to boost Cussons’ profits.

The company has continued to launch new products. This year it introduced Double Bubble, a two-in-one bubble bath product, backed by a £5m ad campaign created by BDH TBWA (MW July 18).

BDH TBWA is also expected to pick up the advertising business for the Original Source brand (MW September 26). Mediaedge:CIA, Manchester handles Cussons’ media planning and buying.