Directorate Change

RNS Number : 5322E

WH Smith PLC

08 April 2011

 



                                                                                                                        8 April 2011

BOARD CHANGES

WH Smith PLC today announces the retirement of John Barton as a Non-Executive Director and the appointment of Jeff Harris as a Non-Executive Director.

WH Smith announces that John Barton who has served as a Non-Executive Director for twelve years is retiring from the Board with effect from 10 June 2011.  WH Smith also announces thatJeff Harris will join the Board as a Non-Executive Director with effect from 10 June 2011.

Jeff Harris has extensive retail and financial expertise.  He is currently Chairman of both Cookson Group plc and Filtrona plc.  Other than as set out in this announcement there are no further disclosures required in respect of Jeff Harris under paragraph 9.6.13 of the Listing Rules.

WH Smith's Chairman, Walker Boyd said:

"On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank John for his significant contribution to the Group over the last twelve years.  He leaves with our thanks and good wishes for the future.

"We are delighted to welcome Jeff Harris on to the Board of WH Smith.  With his retail and financial experience, Jeff will be a valuable member of the Board".

-Ends -

Enquiries:

WH Smith PLC

Sarah Heath                                       Media Relations                                  020 7851 8850

Mark Boyle                                         Investor Relations                               020 7851 8820

 

Brunswick

Tom Buchanan / Catriona McDermott                                                           020 7404 5959

Notes:

Jeff Harris was Chief Executive of Alliance Unichem plc from 1986 to 2003 and Chairman from 2003 to 2005.  He has also previously been a non-executive director of Anzag AG from 1999 to 2007, Bunzl plc from 2000 to 2010 and Associated British Foods plc from 2004 to 2007.

 

END

 

 

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