The Board of WH Smith has announced its intention to appoint Leo Quinn as executive chairman with effect from 7 April 2026.
The appointment will be subject to shareholder approval.
Quinn has more than 20 years’ experience as CEO of UK publicly quoted companies, most recently as group chief executive of Balfour Beatty, the UK’s largest infrastructure company.
In each case he has led significant business transformation, driving sustained cashflows and strong shareholder returns, including over £5bn of total shareholder value, said a statement from WH Smith.
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Prior to that he spent over two decades in leadership roles at global companies, including seven years in the US.
“WHSmith is a great business with a remarkable heritage,” said Quinn.
“Working with the leadership team and our colleagues worldwide, I intend to ensure the Company has the right foundations in place to deliver long‑term value for its investors, business partners and employees.”
Annette Court will step down as chair and non-executive director at the end of the Company’s Annual General Meeting on 2 February 2026.
She said: “The Board strongly believes that Leo’s record of leadership and significant experience of successfully delivering transformation for large international companies make him the right candidate to deliver the Group’s return to stability and long-term growth strategy.
In addition to continuing as senior independent director, Simon Emeny will act as Interim non-executive chairman until Quinn’s appointment. Accordingly, the resolution to re-elect Annette as a director of the Company will be withdrawn.
“On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Annette for her leadership of the Company and, in particular, through the recent challenges, said Emeny.
“Annette has played a vital role in navigating the business through this period and ensured that the platform is in place for Leo to lead the next phase. I would also like to welcome Leo to WHSmith and I look forward to supporting him in the years to come.”
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