Findel names new chairman
Express Gifts owner Findel has named Ian Burke as its executive chairman.
He will succeed David Sugden who announced his intention to stand down last February following seven years as chairman of the group.
Burke is currently chairman of The Rank Group having previously overseen the growth of the business as chief executive.
Prior to that, he was chief executive of Thistle Hotels and other previous roles include managing director of both Holiday Inn Worldwide and Gala Clubs.
Eric Tracey, senior independent director at Findel, said: “Following a comprehensive search process we are pleased to welcome Ian to Findel. As the group continues to target further growth, the board is confident that Ian’s experience will prove of significant value, especially given his recent role in overseeing the multichannel transformation of Rank.”
Sugden will step down on 12 January and leave the company at the end of that month following a short handover period.
Tracey added: “On behalf of the board I would also like to take this opportunity to thank David Sugden for his substantial contribution to the group over seven years in which the group has been refinanced and focused on two core businesses which now have potential for growth. We wish him every success for the future.”
