Clarke keen to drive Provexis forward

FORMER GlaxoSmithKline executive and new Provexis director John Clarke says he is excited about the potential for the business, and expects to be “closely involved” in its future.

New Zealand born, New York-based Mr Clarke, who built up GSK’s Lucozade brand and was a senior executive at the global company before retiring after 35 years with the business last month.

He told TheBusinessDesk.com that his relationship with Provexis’ chief executive Stephen Moon – a former colleague at GSK -had led him to join the board.

“It’s great to be involved in a small business, although one with great growth potential. I hope to be involved in a day-to-day operations and strategy.

“It’s great opportunity and one that is very closesly aligned with my capabilities in sports nutrition and science. It’s a category I really enjoy.”

Mr Clarke said he is looking forward to visiting the region in his new role.

“I obviously know Stephen and I’m looking forward to meeting the rest of the team and coming to visit the production site at Nelson, which is great as I enjoy the production side of the business as much as marketing and brand building,” he added.

The 62-year-old said the key to Provexis’ success would be building the “brand’s credentials and credibility” based on scientific evidence and supported by leading athletes.

“The PR and brand advocacy with credible athletes is important too. At Lucozade we partnered with Alan Shearer, Michael Owen and Steven Gerrard, for example.”