Portmeirion Group names new chairman

Portmeirion Group, the owner, designer, manufacturer and omni-channel retailer of homeware brands has announced Peter Tracey as its new non-executive chairman, effective from 1 February.

The appointment comes after Dick Steele informed the board of his intention to step down from the board and his role as non-executive chairman. Steele will leave the Board on 31 January 2025 having seen the Group grow its global reach and brand portfolio through a number of acquisitions including Spode, Royal Worcester, Wax Lyrical and Nambé.

Tracey is managing director of Blackdown Partners Limited, an independent investment bank. He is also a non-executive director of Hurtwood Capital, his private family office, and Inspired PLC, a technology-enabled service provider delivering solutions to enable businesses to transition to net-zero and manage their response to climate change.

Mike Raybould, chief executive, said: “I would like to thank Dick, on behalf of the entire board, for his valuable contribution, leadership and guidance over the years. Dick’s dedication to supporting British manufacturing and homeware brands has never wavered and he will leave the board with our very best wishes for the future.

“We are pleased to welcome Peter to the board as non-executive chairman. Peter’s contribution will assist the Group in delivering long-term, sustainable value for all our stakeholders.”