Padfield, the Chief Executive Officer of veterinary services provider IVC Evidensia Ireland, is set to join the board of Nichols effective September 1. She will take over the role from Helen Keays, who concludes her nine-year tenure with the Vimto manufacturer on August 31.
Bringing a wealth of “extensive leadership experience” in consumer-oriented enterprises, Padfield has accumulated valuable insights through various senior executive positions over her career. Her previous roles at prominent retailers Marks and Spencer and Tesco have positioned her as a driving force in fostering growth, transformation, and ensuring “operational excellence.”
Nichols noted that through her tenure at M&S and Tesco, Padfield has honed her skills across a variety of domains, including strategic planning, customer engagement, organizational development, logistics, supply chain management, and international retail operations.
Liz McMeikan, chair of Nichols plc, remarked, “On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Helen for her valued contribution to Nichols and warmly welcome Laura as she joins us at an exciting stage in the Group’s continued development.” She added, “I look forward to the benefit that Laura’s breadth and depth of experience will bring to the board.”
Upon her appointment, Padfield will also take on the role of chair for the remuneration committee, alongside becoming a member of the audit and nominations committees, succeeding Keays in these capacities.
Recently, the Merseyside-based company released its interim results for the half-year ending June 30, 2026, reporting a revenue increase of 4.7%, totaling £89.5 million, along with an adjusted operating profit of £14.1 million.