Alan Stewart offered CFO job at Marks & Sparks

Marks and Spencer Group plc (M&S) announces the appointment of Alan Stewart to the Board as Chief Finance Officer. He will join the company by the end of October 2010.

Alan, 50, is currently Chief Financial Officer at aircraft leasing company AWAS. He was Group Finance Director at WHSmith plc from 2005-2008 where he played a key role in delivering the Group’s improved performance. Prior to WHSmith, Alan spent seven years at Thomas Cook, where his roles included Chief Executive of Thomas Cook UK and Group Chief Financial Officer of Thomas Cook Holdings. He also spent nine years as an investment banker with HSBC.

Marc Bolland, Chief Executive, M&S, said:
“Alan has an impressive track record and will be joining us with extensive experience of retail and other highly competitive industries including travel and banking. We look forward to welcoming him to the M&S team.”

Alan Stewart said:
“M&S is one of the UK’s strongest retail brands. I’m delighted to be joining the company and returning to the retail sector.”