(PRESS RELEASE) Inspecs Group plc, a designer, manufacturer and distributor of eyewear frames and prescription lenses to the optical trade, announces the appointment of Shaun Smith and Hugo Adams as Non-Executive Directors with effect from today, to strengthen the Board and assist in the delivery of the Group’s strategic goals.
Shaun has extensive plc experience having previously held CFO roles with Norcros plc and Aga Rangemaster Group plc. In his role at Aga Rangemaster Group plc, Shaun helped oversee the transformation of the business into an international brand-led manufacturer and retail group. Shaun has served as a Non-Executive Director on public company Boards since 2016 including as Audit Committee chair. He is currently a Non-Executive Director of Epwin Group plc. On appointment, Shaun will join the Audit & Risk and Remuneration & Nomination Committees.
Hugo has more than 25 years’ experience working for some of the biggest and best-known, global consumer brands including The Body Shop and running marketing and international expansion at Dyson. During nine years at Marks and Spencer Group PLC he managed businesses across Europe and the Middle East, as well as being Chief of Staff to the CEO and subsequently Property Director. Hugo served on the Executive Board at Superdry Plc, responsible for marketing and business development and most recently as CEO of Start-Rite Shoes. Hugo will serve on the Audit & Risk, Remuneration and Nomination and the newly formed Environmental, Social and Governance committee on appointment.
Richard Peck, who has served on the Board as a Non-Executive Director since January 2020, today assumes the role of Group CEO. With over 35 years’ experience in the optical industry, Richard brings a wealth of knowledge having previously been Managing Director of Luxottica Retail Northern Europe and Managing Director of David Clulow opticians. Richard and Robin Totterman will work closely together, along with the Board, to develop the Company’s global position as a leading player in eyewear solutions through its vertically-integrated frame and lens capabilities.
Robin Totterman, Inspecs Group plc founder and executive chair, said: “I am delighted to welcome Shaun and Hugo to the Board of Inspecs. Shaun has extensive PLC experience having held a variety of finance roles in international manufacturing and retail groups, whilst Hugo brings significant experience in the retail sector and a proven track record of delivering growth for purpose-led consumer brands.
“Today’s appointments come at an important time for the Group as Richard simultaneously steps into the role of Group CEO, and I assume the role of Executive Chair. The Board is delighted that Richard has become CEO with his extensive business development skills gained at Luxottica and is confident he is the right person to lead Inspecs through the next stage of its growth.”
More information is available here.