Boots new chief exec takes charge
Board changes at health & beauty retailer
September 15 2003
Richard Baker has taken up his new role as chief executive of Boots Group.
The former Asda chief operating officer has take over from Boots chairman John McGrath, who has been acting chief executive since the departure of Steve Russell in May.
Baker faces the challenge of equipping Boots to compete with an assault on its market share by supermarkets and other operators. His first official day in post has seen Sainsbury’s announce a major expansion of its health and beauty offer in conjunction with a wider expansion of it non-food offer.
McGrath is stepping down as chairman and acting chief executive, retiring from the boards as Sir Nigel Rudd becomes Chairman. Boots Group has also announced the appointment of banker Guy Dawson as a non executive director, Dawson will chair the retailer’s audit committee.
Sir Nigel Rudd said: “We are delighted to welcome Guy. He has had a successful city career spanning two decades and with his undoubted competence comes a creative, lively mind and an independent contributor to the team.
“I’d also like to thank John for his major contribution to the business over the last three years, and in particular for his efforts as acting Chief Executive and, of course, we are delighted that Richard joins the company today.”
