12/07/2007
The Board of Wm Morrison Supermarkets PLC announces today the appointment of Sir Ian Gibson as non-executive Deputy Chairman of the Group. Sir Ian, aged 60, will take up his new position on 1 September 2007.
Sir Ken Morrison has informed the Board that he will stand down as Chairman of the Company not later than 13 March 2008, following which Sir Ian will become non-executive Chairman.
Sir Ian currently holds a number of non-executive positions including Chairman of Trinity Mirror PLC and Director of Greggs PLC, GKN PLC and Northern Rock PLC. Previous Board appointments include Chairman of BPB PLC, Deputy Chairman of Asda Group PLC and Director of Chelys Ltd and a member of Court of The Bank of England. Sir Ian enjoyed a distinguished 30 year career in the motor industry, most recently as President of Nissan Europe.
Sir Ken Morrison said: "Sir Ian Gibson's combination of retail sector and strategic Board experience will no doubt be vital at this important stage in the company's evolution and I am delighted that he has decided to join the Morrisons team.
"With Ian's appointment we will have an excellent Board in place and I am confident that the Group will continue to deliver value for all stakeholders."
Sir Ian said: "This is a great opportunity for me to work with one of the UK's leading companies and I am looking forward to being part of the dynamic and challenging supermarket sector once more."
Chief Executive, Marc Bolland, said: "The Executive Board is delighted with Sir Ian's appointment. Not only does he bring tremendous experience but I am also sure that he will fit in well with our culture. We very much look forward to working with him."