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Britvic has hired Unilever trading director Phil Sanders as GB commercial director, at home.

Sanders has held account director roles at Unilever including for Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, Tesco and Asda since he joined in 1998. Most recently, he was UK trading director for Unilever’s discounter and convenience channels.

Sanders, who has also worked for Coca-Cola & Schweppes Beverages and Sharwood’s, will take up the role on 14 September, replacing Ian Forshew, who is leaving the company. Britvic did not say why Forshew was leaving.

In his new role, Sanders will report to GB MD Paul Graham and will be responsible for the company’s home sales agenda and driving category growth. On joining Britvic, Sanders will also become a member of its GB executive team.

“Having worked with numerous retailers across multiple channels, Phil brings a wealth of commercial and leadership experience to Britvic,” said Graham.

“He will build on our recent Supplier of the Year award from The Grocer and will further improve our business and relationships with customers. As a member of the GB executive team he will also play a central role in continuing to push forward the transformation that is currently underway across the business.”

Sanders added: “There’s a lot happening in the soft drinks market and I’m delighted to be joining Britvic at this exciting time. I look forward to working with our customers to explore new ways and opportunities to drive category sales.”