Macfarlane Group, the Glasgow-based packaging, design and distribution firm, announced the appointment of former John Lewis executive Laura Whyte as a non-executive director with effect from October 1, 2022.

Whyte has also been appointed as chair of Macfarlane’s remuneration committee, succeeding Aleen Gulvanessian, who will become chair of the firm on October 1.

“Laura had a long-standing career at John Lewis where she served on the management board for over ten years, latterly as HR Director,” said Macfarlane.

“She led several business initiatives in support of retailing, with a particular focus on the customer experience.

“Since 2014 she has worked as a non-executive director with several organisations.

“Her roles include Capital and Regional plc where she chairs the Remuneration and ESG Committees and is a member of the Audit and Nominations Committees, The British Horseracing Authority and the Old Naval College Greenwich.”

Gulvanessian said: “I am delighted to welcome Laura to the board of Macfarlane Group.

“I am confident that her strong people and customer focus from John Lewis as well as wider non-executive experience, will be of significant benefit to the business.

“Laura’s appointment continues to increase the diversity on our board.”