Chill Brands Group PLC (LSE:CHLL, OTCQX:CHBRF) appointed former Mars, GlaxoSmithKline and Philip Morris general counsel as an independent non-executive director, saying it “shows we are serious about our commitment to corporate governance”.
Scott E Thompson, who has three times been recognised as one of the top trademark attorneys in the world by the World Trademark Reporter website, lately oversaw global intellectual property/marketing properties for all Mars businesses. At GSK, Philip Morris and Colgate-Palmolive he was responsible for trademark, copyright, unfair competition, and internet matters.
Formerly a partner at the global law firm Greenberg Traurig, Thompson is currently a partner and co-chair of the intellectual property team at Lippes Mathias LLP.
The appointment follows the recent addition as chief commercial officer of Michael Sandore, formerly of drinks giant Anheuser-Busch InBev and e-cigarette maker Juul.
Chill Brands co-chief executive officer Trevor Taylor, said the board is confident in Thompson's “ability to guide the company as it becomes a global consumer packaged goods brand".
He added: “His appointment to the board shows that we are serious about our commitment to corporate governance. When building a world class brand, you must have best in class experience, talent and leadership. We have all three in Scott E. Thompson."
Thompson said: “Chill is a powerful brand that has the potential to become a household name. It requires a robust strategy to protect its intellectual property and reach its true potential as a CPG company. As a non-executive director, my task now is to keep the team accountable and guide the company as it grows."
Chill said the board is considering a share-based compensation package in relation to the appointment, with further details to be announced.