Murray gets into the FD 'Spirit' at Punch Taverns

RODDY MURRAY will lead the finance function of managed pubs division Spirit when it splits from Punch Taverns later this year.

Murray has been appointed finance director designate. He joins from BSS Group, where he was group FD until its acquisition in December 2010.

At BSS, he played a key role in re-gearing the business and in its eventual sale.

Murray has held several senior finance positions. He served as FD of Moss Bros and Mackay Stores between 2002 and 2005 and 1998 and 2002 respectvely; he previously served in finance with Guinness, United Distillers and Diageo. He has also held roles with British Airways and Price Waterhouse.

Steve Dando takes the FD position at Punch Taverns with immediate effect, having served on an acting basis.

CEO Ian Dyson said Murray's appointment would strengthen the team following its demerger.

Punch's share price fell 0.9p to 77.95p in this morning's trading.

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Pictured: Spirit pub the Anchor, 34 Park Street, Bankside, London