Rob Slater is to head a new household and healthcare division at outsourcing company SHS Sales & Marketing.

The division had been created in response to a marked increase in the number of brands within household and healthcare turning to outsourcing, said SHS.

Slater, who moves up from the role of trade sector manager, will oversee the division and look after its 75 brands and retail ­customers, which include Johnson & Johnson and Reckitt Benckiser.

"The role is a challenging one," said Slater. "As a result of our increased focus on this area, in the past two years, sales within household and healthcare have grown by 114% to in excess of £40m turnover per year. I look forward to continuing this momentum."

Peter Butler, managing director of SHS Sales & Marketing, added: "Over the past 18 months, we have seen more brand ­owners within this sector recognising the benefits of outsourcing.

"The new division under Rob's hand, demonstrates our commitment to the category and the brands we work with."

Clients also welcomed Slater's appointment. "We are delighted Rob will be heading up this new division," said Alex Keevil, ­senior customer development manager for Johnson & Johnson.

"He understands the needs of household and healthcare clients."