Blashill to Retire After 42-Year Career at Imperial

Source from:  Tobacco Reporter 12/08/2010

Graham Blashill, the group sales and marketing director at Imperial Tobacco Group PLC, is to retire at the beginning of February. Blashill has held a number of senior positions during his 42-year career with Imperial, including commercial development manager, managing director UK and regional director for Western Europe. He was appointed group sales and marketing director in 2005. "Graham has had a tremendous career at Imperial Tobacco, managing our operations in a number of key markets and helping to develop our brand and product portfolio into the most versatile in the industry," said chairman, Iain Napier. "He has also been instrumental in evolving our strategic direction, embedding our enhanced sales focus across the business. "On behalf of the Board and our employees I would like to thank Graham for his significant contribution to our success and wish him well in his retirement." Imperial said that in the coming months Blashill would continue to work closely with group marketing director, Roberto Funari, on driving the group's sustainable growth agenda and further developing its portfolio worldwide. Enditem