WH Smith to have new chief financial officer
WH Smith’s chief financial officer and chief operating officer Robert Moorhead is to retire from the role after more than 20 years with the business.
During his career with WH Smith, he has been credited with playing an important role in transforming the company into a global travel retailer.
Carl Cowling, chief executive of WH Smith, said: “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.”
Moorhead will be succeeded by Max Izzard who is currently serving as senior vice president of group and corporate finance at Burberry.
Since joining the luxury brand in 2018, Izzard has held a variety of senior roles. Prior to that, he worked in several senior commercial and group finance roles at IHG.
While Izzard will join the company on 1 September, Moorhead will step down from its board on 30 November and Izzard will be appointed to the board the following day.
Annette Court, WH Smith chair, said: “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.”
