Premier Foods boss Michael Clarke in shock exit
In seventh place on our list of the top stories so far in 2013 is the shock resignation of Michael Clarke as boss of Premier Foods.
Clarke announced his decision to quit the debt-laden company after just 18 months with immediate effect in January.
Shore Capital analysts Clive Black and Darren Shirley said they were both surprised and disappointed to learn of his resignation.
“In addition to our surprise, we cannot hide our disappointment at Mr Clarke’s departure, because we have deemed him to be an effective leader to date, not least because of his commercial capabilities and relationships,” they said in a note.
It was announced that Clarke would be replaced by Gavin Darby as ceo with immediate effect from February 4.
Black and Shirley praised the “remedial work” that Clarke had done “to allow Premier to survive”.