Directorate Change

RNS Number : 8609Q

Bunzl PLC

21 April 2009

 



21 April 2009

BOARD CHANGE

Bunzl plc, the international distribution and outsourcing Group, today announces that Anthony Habgood will step down from the Board with effect from 1 July 2009 following his appointment as Chairman of Reed Elsevier PLC and Reed Elsevier NV.

Jeff Harris, the Company's Senior Independent Director who is also Chairman of Filtrona plc and former Chairman of Alliance UniChem Plc, has been appointed as Interim Chairman from 1 July. The Board has begun the process, which will be overseen by the Nomination Committee, of appointing a successor to Anthony Habgood.

Commenting on the changes, Michael Roney, Chief Executive of Bunzl, said:

'I would like to thank Tony for his tremendous contribution to the success of Bunzl over many years, initially as Chief Executive and subsequently as Chairman. The Board and all Bunzl employees worldwide wish him continued success at Reed Elsevier which will without doubt benefit from his broad international experience and wise stewardship. I am pleased that Jeff, who has been on the Board for eight years and knows our business extremely well, has agreed to take over as Interim Chairman and to run the process to appoint a permanent successor.'

Anthony Habgood said:

'I will be retiring from Bunzl after many years knowing that I will be leaving the Company in sound financial health and well positioned in its markets. Under Mike Roney, who has led the business extremely effectively as Chief Executive since 2005, the Company has a strong management team and is in capable and proven hands. Reed Elsevier is a great opportunity and I am looking forward to taking up my new role. I wish Bunzl continuing great success and everyone throughout the Group all the very best for the future.'

Enquiries:

Bunzl plc Michael Roney, Chief Executive Brian May, Finance Director Tel: [phone]

Tulchan David Allchurch Stephen Malthouse Tel: [phone]

 

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