LONDON: Connect Group PLC announced that Jonathan Bunting, Interim Chief Executive Officer, has been appointed to the role of Chief Executive Officer on a permanent basis.  The appointment will take effect from 1 July 2020.

This announcement follows a recent internal review of the Group’s management structure and the Board’s acknowledgment of Jon’s unparalleled depth of knowledge and experience in having led the Smiths News business for over a decade, in which it has consistently delivered strong results.

In seven months as interim Chief Executive Officer, Jon has delivered all of the Group’s strategic priorities, including the strategic review and subsequent disposal of Tuffnells Parcels Express, leaving the Group to focus on its core strengths and expertise in newspaper and magazine distribution. Under Jon’s leadership, the Smiths News business has continued to deliver an essential service to retailers and communities across the UK throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

Jonathan Bunting commented: “I’m delighted to be appointed CEO and am looking forward to focusing our efforts on Smiths News, free from any other distractions.  Looking ahead, I’m fortunate to have a deeply experienced and capable team, backed by a business wide commitment to service and efficiency. As we emerge from the current exceptional circumstances these qualities will be the core of our advantage in our drive to deliver shareholder value.”