In a significant corporate transition, WH Smith, a company celebrated for its robust presence in the retail sector, announces the retirement of its Finance Chief, Robert Moorhead, after a commendable tenure exceeding two decades. Moorhead, who also served as the Chief Operating Officer at the Swindon-based retail giant, is set to pass the financial stewardship to Max Izzard, an executive from the luxury fashion conglomerate, Burberry.
Moorhead’s journey with WH Smith commenced in 2004 when he assumed the role of Finance Director for retail operations. His exceptional acumen and strategic vision led to his appointment as Chief Financial Officer in 2008, further expanding his responsibilities to include those of Chief Operating Officer in 2013. Moorhead’s leadership has been pivotal in steering WH Smith through periods of transformative growth and expansion.
Max Izzard, slated to assume his new role on September 1, brings a wealth of experience from his tenure as Senior Vice President of Group and Corporate Finance at Burberry. Izzard’s career is marked by significant achievements and leadership positions, including senior commercial and group finance roles at the international hotels group, IHG. His appointment is a testament to WH Smith’s commitment to fostering leadership that can drive the company towards future milestones.
Izzard will officially join the WH Smith board from December 1, following Moorhead’s departure from the board on November 30. This strategic transition reflects the company’s dedication to ensuring a seamless handover and the continued prosperity of the business.
Annette Court, Chair of WH Smith, expressed her gratitude towards Moorhead for his invaluable contributions, stating, “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.”
Echoing this sentiment, Moorhead expressed his confidence in the bright future awaiting WH Smith, acknowledging the solid foundation laid for the company’s ongoing success.
In a demonstration of its resilient performance and strategic focus, WH Smith announced plans in January to inaugurate 110 new shops within this financial year, buoyed by robust UK trade. The company’s strategic pivot towards the travel market, underscored by the success of its outlets in train stations and airports, underscores its dynamic approach to growth and adaptation in an ever-evolving retail landscape.
This leadership transition marks a new chapter for WH Smith, underlining its unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and strategic growth. With Izzard at the financial helm, WH Smith is poised to navigate the future with renewed vigour and vision, cementing its status as a cornerstone of the global retail sector.
