// WHSmith hires new chair to succeed Henry Staunton
// Annette Court will join the board on 1 September and become chair on 1 December
WHSmith has appointed a new chairwoman to replace Henry Staunton, who is departing after nine years.
Annette Court will join the retailer on 1 September and become chair on 1 December, with Staunton set to retire on 30 November 2022 after nine years in the role.
Currently chair of Admiral Group and a non-executive director of Sage Group, Court was previously the chief executive of Europe General Insurance for Zurich Financial Services.
READ MORE: WHSmith returns to profit as travel sales start to surge
She was also the chief executive of Direct Line Group from 2001 to 2006 and a member of the RBS Group executive management committee.
Senior independent director Simon Emeny said: “The company conducted a comprehensive search and Annette emerged as the outstanding candidate.
“She has a proven track record as a chair of a publicly quoted company and brings a wealth of experience from her board appointments and has a strong background in financial services and technology.
“Annette’s appointment will enable a smooth transition from Henry who has led the company successfully throughout his tenure as chairman.”
Court added: “I am very excited to have the opportunity to succeed Henry as chair of WHSmith in its 230th year. I look forward to working with Carl Cowling, chief executive and the management team to grow the business and take advantage of the many exciting opportunities that lie ahead.”
Click here to sign up to Retail Gazette‘s free daily email newsletter
