(Sharecast News) - UK veterinary service provider CVS announced the appointment of David Wilton as its new chair on Wednesday.

The AIM-traded firm said Wilton, who had served as an independent non-executive director since September 2021, had over 30 years of experience in finance, corporate governance and strategic leadership.

A qualified Chartered Accountant, he had held various senior roles including chief financial officer, non-executive director, and board chair across public and private-equity backed companies.

It said his background included significant involvement in mid-cap merger and acquisition and corporate finance, notably with Rothschilds.

Prior to his appointment at CVS, Wilton held key positions such as chief financial officer of Sumo Group and group finance director of WYG.

He also served as non-executive director and chair of the audit committee at Sweett Group and Frontier Developments, respectively.

"I am delighted to take on the role of chair," said David Wilton.

"I know the business well and I look forward to supporting the executive management team even more closely as we continue to grow the business and deliver value for all of our stakeholders."

Currently, Wilton held the position of non-executive director and chair designate at Gateley Holdings.

CVS said Wilton's appointment followed a comprehensive search led by the nomination committee, supported by a recruitment firm which identified a pool of candidates.

The board said it would now begin a search for a new independent audit committee chair, adding that Wilton would continue to serve in that role until the process concluded, after which he would step down as a member of the audit committee.

"On behalf of the board and colleagues at CVS, I would like to congratulate David on his appointment as chair, and thank Deborah for her contribution during her position as Interim chair," commented chief executive officer Richard Fairman.

At 1306 BST, shares in CVS Group were down 1.78% at 961.59p.

Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.