WH Smith PLC today announces the appointment of Kate Swann as Group Chief Executive. Kate joins from GUS Plc, where she is Managing Director of Argos.
Upon her appointment, Richard Handover, currently Group Chief Executive will become Chairman of the WH Smith Group. It is anticipated that Richard will carry out this role until the AGM in January 2005. During this period he will provide the necessary support to ensure an orderly transition.
Martin Taylor will retire as Chairman of the Group but will remain Chairman of the WH Smith Pension Trust.
Martin Taylor, Chairman, commented:
"We are very pleased to have attracted an executive of Kate's ability and high promise. Her track record is outstanding.Richard Handover, Group Chief Executive, commented:
"We believe the management transition will be most effectively handled by Richard Handover becoming Chairman for a limited period. I am therefore stepping down from the chair when Kate arrives; I do this with great confidence in the Company's future."
"It is a great pleasure to welcome Kate Swann as the Group Chief Executive of WHSmith. She brings with her fresh thinking and great energy to drive the Group forward. As I take the role of Chairman, I look forward to working alongside Kate.Kate Swann commented:
"On behalf of the entire Board, I would like to thank Martin for his immense contribution to WHSmith. He has brought a unique blend of wisdom and sharp commercial acumen to the team, and his insightful leadership of the Board has commanded huge respect. He will be missed and he leaves us with our very best wishes".
"I am delighted to have this opportunity to lead WHSmith. The Group benefits from a strong, well-established brand and leading positions in its key markets. I am excited at the growth prospects and challenges that lie ahead and look forward to working with the team."See Notes to Editors
Notes to Editors:
Kate Swann
Kate has a wide range of marketing and retail experience, having started her career at Tesco Plc as a Marketing Executive. She spent four years working for Homepride Foods before joining Coca Cola Schweppes Beverages in 1992. At Coca Cola Schweppes Kate went on to become the General Marketing Manager.
In 1993 Kate joined Dixons Stores Group, initially as the Group Marketing Controller, and she quickly progressed to Marketing Director of Currys. After four years at Dixons Stores Group, she took up the role of Marketing Director of Homebase and within 18 months became the Managing Director.
She has held her current role as Managing Director of Argos since 2000 and in the same year she joined the Board of Lambert Howarth Plc as a Non Executive Director in 2000.
Kate is 38 and is married with two children.
WH Smith PLC
Richard Handover joined WHSmith in 1964 and has served as Group Chief Executive of the WH Smith Group since October 1997.
Martin Taylor has served as Chairman of WH Smith PLC since November 1999