John Menzies plc is pleased to announce that Paul Dollman has been appointed to be the Group's new Finance Director.   He will take up his appointment in October.

 

Paul Dollman (45) has had a varied career in finance and management consultancy. His recent experience includes five years with Inveresk plc, where he played a key role in its flotation. He is currently Group Finance Director at William Grant & Sons Ltd, where he has introduced public company reporting disciplines and has had responsibility for evaluating, developing and implementing international and UK acquisition opportunities.

 

John Menzies' Chief Executive, David Mackay, said:

 

"We welcome Paul.   He brings first-class experience and an outstanding track record.   We are delighted he has chosen to join us.  It is an exciting time because our strategic re-structuring is complete and our prospects are excellent.   A strong, experienced Finance Director will be of crucial importance in helping to turn potential into concrete shareholder value.   In particular, as we continue the expansion of Menzies Aviation, the delivery of appropriate investment returns will be of the highest priority."

 

John Menzies' new Finance Director, Paul Dollman, said:

 

"This is a great time for me to join Menzies because I believe the company has  substantial growth potential.   I am determined that we will seize all value-creating opportunities available to us in the aviation sector and maintain the strength of our distribution operations."

 

Notes for editors:

 

1.                Following a three-year restructuring process Menzies Group now comprises two businesses:  Menzies Distribution, the UK's leading newspaper and magazine distribution operation; and Menzies Aviation, now a major player in the aviation support services sector.

 

2.                Having qualified with Price Waterhouse, involving a spell in Geneva, Paul worked as a management consultant before joining the Clydesdale Retail Group as Managing Director - Financial Services.  He then joined the Maddox Group, where he was involved in flotations and other City activities, and moved to Inveresk shortly before it was floated.  He has been with William Grant since 1998.

 

3.                Paul Dollman replaces Martyn Smith, who is leaving to become Finance Director at Avis Europe plc.   Martyn has been an outstanding Finance Director and we wish him well for the future.

 

Further information:

 

Jonathan Rooper, Cardew & Co

020-7930-0777

 

David Mackay, John Menzies plc

0131-459-8090