WHSmith has appointed Max Izzard as its new chief financial officer, who will take over from Robert Moorhead.

WHSmith fascia

WHSmith has appointed a new chief financial officer 

Moorhead, the retailer’s present chief financial and operating officer, will step down from the board in November 2024 after 20 years at the business.

Izzard, who is currently senior vice-president for group and corporate finance at Burberry, will take over the role of chief financial officer from Moorhead in September this year.

Izzard has held a variety of senior roles over the past six years, including senior commercial and group finance roles at hotel group IHG prior to Burberry.

Moorhead said: “It has been both a pleasure and an honour to have worked at WHSmith over the last 20 years. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Annette [Court, chair] and Carl [Cowling, chief executive] and also my many colleagues, past and present, for their support and friendship.

“I am highly confident that the future for WHSmith is an exciting one and I hand over to Max knowing that the company is well set for many years of continued success.”

Izzard said: “I am delighted to be joining as chief financial officer of WHSmith. I have admired the transformation of the business and I am excited to be joining one of the world’s leading travel retailers.

“I look forward to working closely with Carl and the leadership team to help deliver continuing success for our shareholders and other stakeholders.”