Theworks.co.uk. Regulatory News (WRKS)

16 January 2020

TheWorks.co.uk plc 

Board Changes

TheWorks.co.uk plc ("The Works", the "Company" or the "Group"), the multi-channel value retailer of gifts, arts, crafts, toys, books and stationery, announces the following board changes.

After almost nine years as CEO of the Company, Kevin Keaney, has informed the Board that he has decided to step down as Chief Executive Officer and from the Board of The Works effective today.

Gavin Peck, who joined The Works in April 2018 as CFO, has accordingly been appointed as CEO effective today. Prior to The Works, Gavin was Commercial Director at Card Factory plc where he was responsible for the Commercial function alongside leadership of the Commercial Finance team.

Rosie Fordham, currently Head of Finance, has been appointed as Interim CFO.

Commenting, Chairman, Dean Hoyle, said: "On behalf of the Board and all of our colleagues, I would like to thank Kevin for his leadership and commitment to the Company over the last nine years. He has helped establish The Works as a leading multi-channel value retailer, has built a fantastic culture and successfully guided the Company through its IPO in 2018. We wish him all the very best for the future.

"We are delighted to appoint Gavin as CEO. Since joining The Works he has played a key role in growing and strengthening the business amidst a challenging retail backdrop. He brings significant industry knowledge as well as commercial and finance experience to lead the business into the future."

Commenting, Kevin Keaney said: "After an incredible nine years, I believe now is the right time for me to hand over to a new CEO to lead The Works through its next phase of development. Whilst this has been a very difficult decision, it feels like the right time to take a break, spend time with my family and think about what I want to do next.

"It's been a privilege to lead The Works over these past years and more recently as a public company. It is a tremendous business supported by incredibly talented colleagues. I am immensely proud of all that we have achieved together and I would like to thank the Board and everyone at The Works for their support through the years. I am delighted to be handing over to Gavin who I have worked closely with over the last 20 months and I am confident that under Gavin's leadership the business will go from strength to strength."