I’m looking forward to joining WHSmith on the 7th April. It’s a fantastic business with an incredible heritage, and I’m committed to working with colleagues around the world to make sure the right foundations are in place to deliver long‑term value for investors, partners and employees
This morning, the Group has announced its intention to appoint Leo Quinn as Executive Chairman in April. Leo is a highly regarded business leader with over 20 years’ experience as CEO of UK publicly quoted companies, most recently as Group Chief Executive of Balfour Beatty plc - the UK’s largest infrastructure company. In each case, Leo has led significant business transformation, driving sustained cashflows and strong shareholder returns, including over £5 billion of total shareholder value. We very much look forward to Leo joining the Group and know he is very keen to start getting to know the business and our teams. We would also like to extend our thanks to Annette Court who will step down as Chair and non-executive director at the end of the Company's Annual General Meeting on 2 February. Annette has played a vital role in navigating the business through this most recent challenging period for the Group and ensured that the platform is in place for Leo to lead the next phase. Full details of today’s announcement can be found here: https://lnkd.in/eku7AEYu
Turnaround. Coming to a high street near you.
Congratulations on the new role in your very impressive journey. Of course, success will happen with your mentorship, and I want to offer prayers and good thoughts that this new chapter delivers great satisfaction, continued growth, and enlightenment, along with good health and a lot of laughter and enjoyment. Be well, and thank you for all you did while leading Balfour Beatty.
Congratulations, Leo Quinn. Having seen first-hand how leadership in construction and infrastructure sharpens decision-making, governance and long-term value creation, it’s clear how transferable those skills are into a business like WHSmith—a firm fit.
A pivotal moment for the business. Putting the right foundations in place early will matter a great deal for long-term value.
Really looking forward to seeing how you transform the performance of this great brand
Good luck with the new role Leo and I hope you can secure WHSmith’s place in the market.
Knowing what you came in and did at Balfour Beatty Leo Quinn i suspect you are exactly what WH Smith need right now…..with some very worrying and dubious things I read about their recent finances.
There is a lot to be done. High St stores are a poor customer experience
Congratulations Leo a completely different challenge to your days at Balfours but once a leader, always a leader. I wish you luck leading a brand that is special to us Brits and where I started my Full Time working life 🫶
AGS Airports•2K followers
3moCongratulations and good luck in the new role Leo !