Musgrave Retail Partners has announced the appointment of new Budgens brand director, Mike Baker.

Formerly trading director and head of own brand at Booker for four years, Baker has now joined Musgrave Retailer Partners GB management team, reporting to managing director Peter Ridler.

Baker has over 28 years of commercial and operational experience in both retail and wholesale. He previously spent 14 years working at Sainsbury’s in operational and buying roles.

As brand director for Budgens, Baker is responsible for the development of all areas of the Budgens consumer proposition and further developing the estate. 

Baker said: “I am really pleased to be joining Budgens at what appears to be an exciting time for the brand.  I have a real passion for food retail and look forward to working with all our partners as we move towards a ‘better Budgens’ in 2015. ”

Peter Ridler said: “We are delighted to welcome Mike to the Budgens team. As brand director he will play a lead role in developing the proposition as we move forward. It’s great to have him on board.”

Baker will be taking over the responsibilities on Budgens that were previously part of John Pattison’s roles as Pattison moves into his new position as Londis brand director this month.