They each bring wide international and specialist experience to the board, which will prove invaluable as our growth continues.' Since the buy-out, and flotation in 1986, Tibbett and Britten has maintained close links with Unilever.
He said: 'We've got lots of buddies in Unilever and have always kept in touch.' The connection was underlined this month when Tibbett appointed Mr Michael Johnson, 59, as non-executive director.