IN BRIEF: Next 15 names chair designate as Ladkin-Brand to step down

Next 15 Group PLC - London-based business growth consultancy - Appoints Non-Executive Director Mark Astaire as chair designate, noting that Chair Penny Ladkin-Brand will not stand for re-election at the annual general meeting in July, having been chair for the last five years. Explains that Astaire, who joined the board in February last year, will succeed Ladkin-Brand at the AGM, allowing time "for an orderly and well managed transition." Next 15 notes Astaire's prior experience in leadership positions, including as chair of Corporate Broking at Barclays and head of Corporate Broking at Bank of America Merrill Lynch.

"We are thrilled that Mark Astaire will be assuming the role of chair later this year. Having worked closely together for the last 7 months, his significant experience has already proven invaluable as we have acted decisively to clarify, simplify and strengthen our business. I look forward to working with him and the wider Board on the next chapter," says Chief Executive Sam Knights.

Current stock price: 281.00 pence, up 2.7% on Tuesday morning in London

12-month change: down 1.4%

By Christopher Ward, Alliance News reporter

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