Virgin Active has appointed Richard Baker, former chief executive of Boots, as non executive chairman, replacing Peter Norris.

Baker, 45, stepped down from Alliance Boots last summer after its takeover by Kohlberg Kravis Roberts, the buyout fi rm. Prior to joining Boots in 2003, he was chief operating offi cer of Asda.

Before that he was at Mars for 10 years. Commenting on his appointment, Baker says: “I have been very impressed with Virgin Active – the business, its management and the strategy that is in place to achieve future growth. I am delighted to be joining the board of such an exciting company.”

Matthew Bucknall, chief executive of Virgin Active, says: “I am very pleased to welcome Richard to our board. His extensive knowledge of health and wellness issues, retail and consumer expertise, and experience running one of the UK’s largest international chains will be invaluable as we continue to grow.”

Virgin Active currently owns and operates 169 clubs around the world – 71 of which are in the UK.