MARS Food UK MD Emma Evison has been promoted to the newly created role of global customer strategy director for Mars Inc.

In her new role, Evison will work across all of the Mars business segments globally including food, chocolate, petcare and Wrigley.

The announcement is the second high-profile promotion from the UK for Mars in the past 12 months, following the move of fellow Mars lifer Fiona Dawson, who took over as president of the global food business in January. She took on responsibility for Mars’ portfolio of global food brands including Uncle Ben’s, Dolmio and Masterfoods, as well as its drinks business and European Multisales.

Evison, who joined Mars almost 20 years ago, has been leading the food business as MD in the UK since 2011. She took over this role from Rob Hughes, who retired, having previously been the UK sales director.

She joined Mars in 1994 and held a number of roles across the company’s petcare, chocolate and food divisions in both the UK and Europe.

“I’ve loved my time leading the UK food business. I’ve had great fun working with our amazing team, our customers and partners since I took the job in 2011,” said Evison. “I’m looking forward to helping shape our global customer agenda for the future as we look to bring the voice of our customers into everything we do.”

Andrew Clarke, Mars, Incorporated chief customer officer, said: “Emma’s blend of customer and leadership experience – developed in the dynamic UK retail environment – will bring great value both to Mars and our customers. I’m delighted to welcome her to the team.”

Evison will continue to live in the UK and will remain on the board of Trustees of the IGD. A successor is expected to be announced over the coming weeks.