WH Smiths unveil new chief financial officer
Swindon based retailer WH Smiths has appointed a new chief financial officer.
The current incumbent Robert Moorhead is stepping down after more than 20 years with the business.
Moorhead was also chief operating officer.
He will be succeeded by Max Izzard, is currently senior vice president of group and corporate finance at Burberry .
Max Izzard will join the company in September.
He is a highly experienced finance director, with deep expertise in multi-site international consumer businesses.
He has held a variety of senior roles there over the last six years, helping to support the strategic transformation and development of the business, overseeing the group finance functions, tax and treasury. Prior to Burberry, Max held several senior commercial and group finance roles at IHG PLC.
Robert joined the Company in 2004 as Finance Director – Retail.
He was appointed chief financial officer in 2008 and chief financial officer and chief operating officer in 2013.
Robert has played an important leadership role in transforming WH Smith into a global travel retailer.
Annette Court, Chair commented: “I want to pay tribute to Robert’s outstanding achievements during his 20 years at WH Smith. He has played an integral role in the transformation of the Company to a highly successful global travel retailer, trading in 32 countries around the world.
“I am pleased to welcome a highly capable successor in Max who brings a range of financial and commercial experience in multi-site international businesses.”
Chief executive Carl Cowling added: “Robert has been a fantastic support to me and the broader Executive teams. In particular, I want to thank him for his work during the exceptional challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic and the way he skillfully navigated the financial complexities of those times. It is testament to his efforts and talents that he will leave the Company in such a strong financial and strategic position. I thank him for that and wish him all the best for his retirement.
“I look forward to working with Max who has a strong background and a wealth of expertise in a variety of international businesses, and I know he will contribute to the continued success of the Company.”
Robert Moorhead said: “It has been both a pleasure and an honour to have worked at WH Smith over the last 20 years. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Annette and Carl and also my many colleagues, past and present, for their support and friendship. I am highly confident that the future for WH Smith is an exciting one and I hand over to Max knowing that the Company is well set for many years of continued success.”
Max Izzard added: “I am delighted to be joining as chief financial officer of WH Smith. I have admired the transformation of the business and I am excited to be joining one of the world’s leading travel retailers. I look forward to working closely with Carl and the leadership team to help deliver continuing success for our shareholders and other stakeholders.”
