Mr Rose has notified the board of his intention to retire as group finance director and a member of the board at the conclusion of the company’s annual general meeting on 15th April this year.

Mr Ferguson, currently managing director of the European, Middle East and African operations, will succeed him and will be appointed to the board on Wednesday 15 April 2020, subject to shareholder approval.

Mr Ferguson has held a number of senior financial positions within the company and is a qualified chartered management accountant.

Jay Glick

Jay Glick, chairman, said: “The board thank Peter for his commitment and contribution to the group over the past 23 years and particularly during his 12 years as finance director on the board, during which time he played an instrumental role in the development of the company. We wish him well in his retirement from the board.

“I am delighted that after due consideration and an appropriate selection process, we will welcome Bruce Ferguson to the board as finance director in April 2020. Bruce brings considerable experience and knowledge to the board having been with the company for 26 years, of which nine years have been as managing director of European operations.”