Drax appoints new non-executive director

British electrical power generation company Drax Group added Vanessa Simms to its board on Wednesday, tapping her to fill the seat set to be left vacant when current audit committee chair, David Lindsell, stands down next year.

Simms, a chief financial officer at Grainger, also has a strong background in listed businesses, with more than two decades of experience in senior leadership roles at Unite Group, Segro, Stryker and Vodafone.

Drax's new non-executive director was also appointed as a member of the company's audit committee, working closely with Lindsell, in anticipation of her succeeding him when he steps down in 2019, and as a member of the company's nomination and remuneration committees.

Chairman Philip Cox said: "The directors are delighted to welcome Vanessa to the board. Her financial and commercial experience from a broad range of companies and industries will provide real value as Drax delivers on its purpose to help change the way energy is generated, supplied and used for a better future.

"I'm looking forward to joining the board of Drax at this key time for sustainable energy in the UK."

As of 1010 BST, Drax shares had ticked up 0.12% to 324.80p.