National Express FD to join Croda

SENIOR finance professional Jez Maiden is leaving National Express to serve as group FD of Croda.

Maiden, who has served at the transport group since 2008, will join the speciality chemicals group in the New Year, He will take over from Sean Christie, who has spent nine years at the business.

Maiden has held various senior finance roles, including group FD of Northern Foods, CFO of British Vita and group FD of Hickson International – the two latter businesses also being chemical specialists.

Martin Flower, Croda chairman, said: “I am delighted to welcome Jez to the Croda board. He has an exceptional track record as a group finance director and has had extensive experience working across the speciality chemical sector. He will be a valuable addition to our senior team and we look forward to working with him.”

National Express’ UK business FD Matthew Ashley, also former group FC, will serve as interim group FD during the recruitment process.

Maiden said: “I have had a hugely enjoyable and rewarding time at National Express and will be sad to leave. I am looking forward to my new opportunity at Croda, in an industry where I began my plc career, and am confident National Express will continue to go from strength to strength.”