Directorate Change

RNS Number : 8423B

Smith (DS) PLC

03 November 2009

 



DS Smith Plc

3 November 2009

Tony Thorne to retire as Group Chief Executive

Miles Roberts to be appointed as successor

DS Smith Plc, the international packaging manufacturer and office products wholesaler, announces Tony Thorne's intention to retire as Group Chief Executive once a successor is in place. 

Tony Thorne joined DS Smith in January 2001 and became Group Chief Executive in October 2001. He informed the Board some time ago of his preference not to continue in that role beyond his 60th birthday in 2010. 

The Board has carried out a thorough evaluation of a strong list of internal and external candidates. It is pleased to announce that Miles Roberts will be appointed Group Chief Executive and is expected to take up his position during the first quarter of 2010. An announcement will be made in due course to confirm his start date. 

Miles Roberts, aged 45, is currently Chief Executive of McBride plc where he has led a programme to deliver significant growth and improved shareholder value.  He brings considerable international experience as well as an understanding of manufacturing and DS Smith's packaging markets.  

Commenting, Peter Johnson, Chairman of DS Smith Plc, said:

"Tony has made a huge contribution to DS Smith and we all wish him well. We are delighted to welcome Miles as our next Group Chief Executive. He has an enviable record of success as well as very relevant experience for our business."

Regulatory Disclosure 

As required by the Listing Rules, it is confirmed that there are no details to be disclosed pursuant to LR 9.6.13 R (1) to (6). Mr Roberts does not hold any shares in the Company.

Enquiries:

DS Smith Plc                               01628 583 400

Peter Johnson, Chairman

Financial Dynamics                    020 7831 3113

Andrew Dowler 

 

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