Hutton joined the family-run business in March 2022 as finance director before taking up the MD post in August that same year.

Business development director David Chambers credited Hutton for her work at D&S during the pandemic but confirmed the business would now seek to take a fresh, longer-term approach to its leadership.

Hutton left the business on Friday (16 February) after nearly two years. "We wish her every success for the future," said Chambers.

"When Annelene came into D&S, we were in the midst of the pandemic, which was a time of great challenge for the industry and for us as a business," he continued.

"At that time, she had the rights skills and experience to help us manage the business through this period, and we are extremely grateful for contribution."

However, Chambers said it was time for D&S to take "a different approach". "The industry and the business is in a very different place and trading period.

"Our board, made up of members of the D&S family, is now looking at opportunities to further develop D&S for the long-term. As such, we have concluded our leadership going forward requires a different approach, and this is what has led us to this difficult decision.

"We are extremely grateful of Annelene’s contribution to D&S during her time with us, and she leaves us with our best wishes."