Domecq and US chief part company

ALLIED Domecq's top man in North America has left after disagreeing with the board over strategy for the group's biggest market.

Todd Martin, 46, was promoted to the post two years ago after impressing the board with his marketing skills in the giant North American division. But chief executive Philip Bowman said: 'We have concluded mutually that there is such a disparity on strategic direction and execution that it is better Todd leaves the company at this point.'

Insiders denied there was a split over Allied's long-running legal battle with archrival Diageo for ownership of Captain Morgan rum. Instead, it appears the board was dissatisfied with Martin's progress in building US sales.

However, the former marketing man for Pizza Hut was paid a bonus of £382,000 last year against the previous year's £353,000. He will receive a pay-off of £650,000 as part of his two-year rolling contract.

Allied, best known for its Ballantine's Scotch whisky and Beefeater gin, is launching a major offensive in North America. Until a replacement can be found, Richard Turner, president of Allied Domecq's global spirits and wine operations, will manage day-to-day operations in the region.