Today's Group, the wholesale arm of Nisa-Today's, has named veteran John Baines as its new trading director.

Baines, who has worked for or with Today's Group for the past 22 years, is promoted from senior trading controller. He replaces Nick Barker who left in August to "pursue other interests" after almost 24 years at Today's Group.

"This is a senior appointment and one John richly deserves," said Today's Group MD Bill Laird. "His sector insight, coupled with vast experience, will be invaluable as we continue to develop the Today's Group for our members. He will bring a fresh perspective to the executive team and will be a popular appointment among wholesalers and suppliers alike."

During his time at Today's Group, Baines has been pivotal in a variety of initiatives including the launch of the Today's Retail Club. He has also chaired various internal trading committees, including licensed and impulse.

"John has demonstrated his outstanding knowledge of the sector over many years and is highly regarded by members and suppliers," said Today's Wholesale member Mark Windebank, owner of Savage & Whitten and a Nisa-Today's Holdings board director. "He has a firm but fair style of negotiation and his appointment is excellent reward for the dedication and talent he possesses."

Baines said: "I am passionate about the business. I look forward to contributing to our strategy for growth and increasing benefits for our members in my new role."