Frasers appoints new chair and nears NED appointment

Frasers has announced the appointment of Sir Jon Thompson as its new chair, replacing David Daly who steps down after eight years in the role.

The company is also close to appointing Andy Lyon as non-executive director to the board and expects to make a further announcement in due course regarding a second, well-advanced candidate, for a further non-executive director position.

Those roles would succeed David Daly, Ger Wright and Helen Wright, who are not seeking re-election at the forthcoming AGM.

Thompson joined the group’s board of directors in June 2024 as a non-executive director, bringing with him extensive experience in corporate governance and major project management.

Lyon is a former partner at PwC whose expertise includes acting as audit partner for Next and its credit business.

Michael Murray, CEO of Frasers Group, said: “I would like to thank David for his outstanding leadership, guidance, and the wealth of expertise he brought to the board, which has been instrumental in helping us deliver on our Elevation Strategy. We wish him all the very best for the future. I would also like to thank Ger and Helen for their contributions during their time with Frasers Group.

“I’m equally delighted to announce our proposed new appointment to the board with Andy, as well as Jon’s confirmed appointment to chair, as we enter the next phase of our strategy. Jon’s deep experience in corporate governance and strategic leadership will be invaluable as we continue to grow as a leading global retail business.”

Thompson added: “I am very much looking forward to working alongside board colleagues, the group executive team and the wider company to continue Fraser Group’s evolution. I would like to acknowledge David’s significant contribution to the development of Frasers over the last eight years and thank him for his expert leadership. He leaves Frasers and the Board well positioned to enable the future success of the Elevation Strategy.”