Genus promotes FD Stephen Wilson to role of CEO

Animal genetics company Genus has promoted group finance director Stephen Wilson to the role of chief executive.

Wilson will take over from outgoing CEO Karim Bitar, who is leaving to head up another company, on 13 September.

Having joined Genus in January 2013, Wilson already had "a very strong and deep understanding" of the group and had been an integral part of the strategic and operational development of the company, as it continued to grow and strengthen its position as a world leader in animal genetics, the company said.

The FTSE 250 business said Wilson was "by far the strongest candidate for the role" following a review of both external and internal candidates.

The search for a permanent replacement for the role of FD is already underway, with financial controller Janet Duane taking over on an interim basis.

Chairman Bob Lawson said: "Stephen has already had significant strategic and operational input in the development of Genus and no one knows the business better than him. We are delighted that Stephen will drive Genus through the next stage of our continued growth, and it is clear that Genus is, and will continue to be, in strong hands."

As of 0840 BST, Genus shares had ticked up 0.15% to 2,602p.