British American Tobacco p.l.c. has announced the appointment of Matthew Wright to its board as an independent non-executive director with effect from next month. Wright will become a member of the remuneration and nominations committees at that time.

Wright currently serves as non-executive director of wine and spirits merchants Berry Bros & Rudd Ltd, where he also chairs the remuneration committee. He also chairs the board of Cripps Leadership Advisors and is chair-designate and senior adviser at executive search firm Movemeon.

Wright has spent his career advising organisations on the recruitment, retention and development of senior talent to support transformation and growth. Between 1993 and 2013, Wright held roles at Russell Reynolds Associates, including as chief executive, president and member of the board, head of Asia and Europe, and member of both the global executive committee and global operating committee. Prior to that, he held various roles at Korn/Ferry International, Knight Wendling and Cripps Leadership Advisors (formerly Cripps Sears Ltd).

Commenting on the appointment, Luc Jobin, chair of BAT’s board, said: “I am pleased to welcome Matt Wright to our board. Cultural transformation is critical to our sustainable future, and having laid the foundations, we are progressing well. Matt brings valuable experience in this area. He also brings extensive international experience across Asia, Europe and the US, having led and advised global organisations in different sectors through periods of growth and transformation. His proven leadership and strong people acumen will be valuable assets as BAT continues on its ambition to build a Smokeless World.”