Sage has hired David Clayton as its new group strategy and mergers and acquisitions director.

He steps down from the accountancy and small business specialist's board with immediate effect and will take up his new role from 1 October.

Clayton had been wearing two hats at Sage, the other being senior independent director at the firm.

Tim Ingram, who had been a non-executive director, has been handed the role of senior independent director and will start his new job immediately.

Given the board reshuffle, Sage said it was now looking to appoint two non-executive directors.

Paul Walker, chief executive at the firm, said: "David's broad experience in the technology industry and his in-depth knowledge of Sage makes him uniquely qualified for the role.

"David will concentrate on longer term trends in the industry and help position Sage for continued success in our global markets."

In May, the UK-based business management software firm appointed Tony Hobson as its new chairman following Sir Julian Horn-Smith's surprise decision to quit the post over irreconcilable differences with the board. ®

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