British American Tobacco PLC (BATS.LN) Wednesday said that former chief executive of drinks giant Pernod Ricard SA (RI.FR) Richard Burrows will succeed Jan du Plessis as chairman on Nov. 1.

BAT senior independent director Nick Scheele said, "Richard's executive career in the worldwide fast-moving consumer goods, or FMCG, sector makes him an excellent choice, as does his proven ability to work with a team from various cultures and countries. He's also an experienced non-executive director and the Board of British American Tobacco looks forward to the additional perspective he will be able to bring."

Burrows was previously chief exectuive of Irish Distillers and Pernod Ricard and is a former governor of the Bank of Ireland (IRE).

Analysts welcome the appointment because of his experience with consumer goods companies. Du Plessis is stepping down to become chairman of miner Rio Tinto PLC (RIO.LN).

British American Tobacco shares closed Tuesday at 1872 pence.

Company Web site: www.bat.com

By Anita Likus, Dow Jones Newswires; +44 20 7842 9407; anita.likus@dowjones.com