Floorcoverings distributor Headlam Group plc has announced that Chris Payne, Interim Chief Executive and Chief Financial Officer, has been appointed permanent Chief Executive with immediate effect.
Following an extensive search, the Board believes that Chris is the best person to drive delivery of the business change strategy which is focused on substantial revenue growth opportunities across a broader segment of the market from a more efficient operating base following the actions taken during the last two years.
After seven years on the Board, Philip Lawrence, Non-Executive Chairman, has decided not to offer himself for re-election at the forthcoming AGM in May 2022, and will step down and leave the Company at that time. During the last four years as Chairman, Philip has overseen the planning, implementation, and considerable development of the business change strategy which is now providing meaningful benefits both operationally and financially, and demonstrating increasing success. In addition, during his tenure, the Board has been considerably strengthened, oversight and governance increased, and a comprehensive ESG strategy initiated.
Philip Lawrence, Non-Executive Chairman, said:“We are delighted that Chris has been appointed Chief Executive. In the five years since he joined the Company, he has been a highly effective and commercial Chief Financial Officer, and a key architect of the business change strategy. Chris has provided strong leadership over the last five months as Interim Chief Executive which has seen continuing success coming through from the strategy, and we are confident he will lead the Company in achieving its aims.
“I shall be stepping down at the AGM in May 2022 having served seven years with the Company. I have enjoyed my time with Headlam, and as Chairman in the last four years have presided over some notable changes with the Company in a significantly better place to grasp the opportunities of organic growth and scale.”
Chris Payne, Chief Executive, said: “I am delighted to have now been appointed permanent Chief Executive. Over my five years with the Company, I have been heavily involved with operations and the business change strategy in addition to my role as Chief Financial Officer. I have seen many of our actions now come to fruition, and believe the Company is poised for greater success in the future, and I intend to drive through all the opportunities available.”
