Compass Group, the world’s largest caterer, has appointed Mark White as general counsel and company secretary as it seeks to rebuild its tarnished corporate image.
White, a qualified solicitor, will be responsible for creating a corporate governance framework at the group to ensure it operates the highest professional and ethical standards.
He will also provide input into all major company transactions and ensure the caterer has appropriate processes in place to identify and respond to legal issues.
Richard Cousins, group chief executive of Compass, said: “We are very pleased to have appointed Mark. He has the experience, which amongst other qualities will be invaluable in our determination to focus on corporate governance across the group.”
Compass was criticised by the Association of British Insurers last month for its past remuneration practices and the hefty payouts received by former directors.
It was also embroiled in two lawsuits regarding procurement irregularities at the UN, which it settled out of court last October, and has since vowed to be more transparent and open in its dealings.
White, who was group company secretary and counsel at construction materials company Wolseley, will report to Richard Cousins as a member of Compass Group’s executive committee and to chairman Sir Roy Gardner, as secretary to the board.
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By Chris Druce
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