Hostmore chairman to step down

Hostmore has announced that its chairman and non-executive director, Gavin Manson, will be retiring at the end of the annual general meeting on 25 May 2023 to focus on his other executive commitments. 

As a result, the board has appointed Stephen Welker, a current non-executive director, has agreed to become chairman-designate to succeed Manson at the end of the annual general meeting. 

As chairman designate, Welker will chair the nominations committee and become a member of its disclosure committee. 

David Lis, senior independent director of Hostmore, said: “On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Gavin for the contribution he has made to Hostmore. Gavin played an integral role in the demerger of the company from Electra Private Equity and his experience, knowledge and leadership have been greatly valued by us all. He goes with our best wishes for the future.

“We are delighted to confirm the appointment of Stephen Welker as chairman-designate. Stephen brings unique strategic insight into our business, which, combined with his financial, commercial and investor relations expertise, will be invaluable as we grow and strengthen the business.”

Manson said: “It has been a privilege to have served as chairman of Hostmore and I am pleased that Stephen will succeed me in this role, given his understanding and knowledge of the business, along with his other strengths. 

“Though I remain a supportive significant shareholder, I will now be focusing on my other executive commitments and wish everyone at the Company all the best for the future.”

Welker added: “I am pleased to have been asked to become chairman of Hostmore and look forward to working with the executive management team and the board to help deliver on the company’s key objectives. It has been a pleasure to work with Gavin for a number of years and I wish him the best in his future endeavours.”