Cadbury Schweppes has appointed two new chairmen as it edges closer to completing the demerger of the confectionery and Americas Beverages businesses.

When the demerger is finalised, Roger Carr, who has been on the Cadbury Schweppes board for seven years, will become chairman of Cadbury plc.

Wayne Sanders, the former president and CEO of Kimberly-Clark, will chair the Dr Pepper Snapple Group (DPSG).

Carr's appointment has been controversial as he is also chairman of pub chain Mitchells & Butlers. M&B shareholders called for his resignation at the AGM after the group accrued losses on a failed property venture.

Carr replaces Sir John Sunderland, who announced his retirement last year. A progress update on the demerger is expected next month.