Wickes Appoints New CFO

Wickes Group plc (the 'Company' or 'Wickes') today announces the appointment of Mark George as Chief Financial Officer. Mark will join the business with a start date no later than 20 July 2022, replacing Julie Wirth, who has announced her intention to retire from a full-time executive role following her significant contribution to the successful transition of Wickes from a subsidiary business to a stand-alone listed entity. Julie has agreed to stay on in her role as Chief Financial Officer until 20 July 2022 to ensure a seamless and orderly transition. 

Mark George has been Chief Financial Officer at The Gym Group PLC since 2018. Before that Mark was at Auto Trader PLC, where he was Deputy CFO and he previously held several senior roles in finance, strategy and general management at a number of leading consumer businesses including Tesco and Asos. 

David Wood, Chief Executive Officer commented: "Julie has played a pivotal role in the successful demerger and listing of the Company and it is with great sadness that we will see her leave. The Board and I would like to thank Julie for her outstanding contribution and we wish her great success in whatever she chooses to do next." 

"I am delighted that Mark is joining us. He has a strong track record in a listed company environment and brings extensive financial leadership, strategy and investor experience combined with a passion for the customer. This will be invaluable to the next stage of our journey." 

Julie Wirth commented, "It has been a privilege to support Wickes through an exciting period of transition; a business with a fantastic culture which is well positioned for future growth. The time is now right for me to step down from a full-time PLC role to pursue other interests and opportunities, and I wish both the Company and all my colleagues the very best for the future." 

Mark George commented, "Wickes is a great business with a strong brand and an inspiring purpose. I am delighted to be joining at this exciting time for the Company and look forward to working with the team to deliver the growth strategy." 

Christopher Rogers, Chairman commented, "On behalf of the Board, I am delighted to welcome Mark to Wickes. His expertise and experience will be crucial as we continue to grow the business. I would also like to express the Board's sincere thanks to Julie for her commitment, professionalism and dedication to Wickes during her tenure and wish her all the best for the future." 

Source : Wickes

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