Coats snaps up Spirax Chair Tim Cobbold to succeed David Gosnell

Thu, 14th May 2026 11:33

(Alliance News) - Coats Group PLC on Thursday announced that Tim Cobbold will join its board as chair designate, and as a non-executive director, with effect from July 1.

"I am delighted to be joining Coats at a time that the group has exciting opportunities to accelerate growth and to generate significant value for shareholders," Cobbold commented.

The London-based manufacturer of footwear and apparel materials confirmed that outgoing Chair David Gosnell will retire from the board on July 31, having been in his current role since May 2021.

Cobbold, who is currently chair of Gloucestershire-based thermal energy and fluid technology firm Spirax Group PLC, will officially succeed Gosnell as chair with effect from August 1.

Coats noted that Cobbold was previously chair of TI Fluid Systems PLC from 2022 to 2025. He has also worked as chief executive of UBM PLC, De La Rue PLC and Chloride Group PLC.

"Following a comprehensive and rigorous search process, the board is delighted to appoint Tim as chair," said Senior Independent Director Steve Murray. "He brings extensive experience of leading large, complex industrial groups and a strong track record of delivering value through growth, operational excellence, and capital allocation including M&A.

"His meaningful experience as chair of listed companies, combined with his international background, positions him well to support the company's long‑term growth."

Coats shares traded 0.7% higher at 82.75 pence on Thursday in London. Spirax shares rose 0.1% to 7,045.00p each.

By Emma Curzon, Alliance News reporter

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