Directorate Change

RNS Number : 5238H

Victrex PLC

20 May 2014

 



May 20, 2014

Victrex plc: Chairman succession

Anita Frew to retire after serving on the Board for 14 years; 6 as Chairman

Victrex plc, an innovative world leader in high performance polymer solutions, announces that Anita Frew will retire as Non-Executive Chairman of Victrex plc on 30 September 2014, after serving on the Board for 14 years, including 6 as Chairman. Anita will be succeeded as Chairman by Lawrence (Larry) Pentz, currently a Non-Executive Director of the Company. The search for the role of Chairman covered both internal and external candidates and was led by Giles Kerr, the Senior Independent Director.

Larry was appointed to the Victrex Board in 2008 and currently chairs its Risk Committee. He has over 30 years' service within multi-national corporations in a variety of operational and general management positions. Larry has extensive experience in developing strategy for and successfully leading international growth businesses, and has been instrumental in the acquisition and integration of multiple catalyst and chemical companies for Johnson Matthey, where he remains an Executive Director.

Anita Frew, current Chairman of Victrex, said: "I'm delighted that Larry has accepted the Board's invitation to succeed me as Chairman of Victrex. He brings invaluable and relevant industry experience, and a deep knowledge of the sector and Victrex's strategic markets.

"It has been an honour to chair Victrex, one of Britain's great industrial manufacturing companies and a true export champion. I feel privileged to have been able to build and lead an outstanding Board and executive team. Victrex has a clear strategy, a culture of innovation, technical leadership, a strong financial position and our timely investment in new capacity will support our continuing commercial success and growth." 

Larry Pentz said: "We will certainly miss Anita's leadership as Chairman of Victrex and I feel privileged to have the opportunity to succeed her and build on her work. Anita's contribution to the company over 14 years, particularly the last 6 years as Chairman, has been invaluable and we wish her well. The business remains well positioned to drive further growth and create value over the coming years and I look forward to working with the Board and the wider Victrex team."

Upon his appointment as Chairman, Larry will also become Chair of the Nominations Committee.

Enquiries:

Victrex plc:

Andrew Hanson, Head of Investor Relations                                      [phone]

Anita Frew, Chairman                                                                         [phone]

Larry Pentz, Non-Executive Director                                                  [phone]

David Hummel, Chief Executive                                                         [phone]

About Victrex:

Victrex is an innovative world leader in high performance polymer solutions. Every day, millions of people rely on products or applications which contain our materials, from smartphones, aeroplanes and cars to oil & gas operations and medical devices. With over 35 years' experience, we are focusing on technical excellence to deliver new and leading edge solutions to our customers and our markets, and to drive value for our shareholders. Find out more at www.victrexplc.com

 

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