Sportech names Richard McGuire as chairman to replace Giles Vardey

People News

Sportech announces the following changes to its board of directors.

Giles Vardey has decided to step down from his role as Independent Non-Executive Chairman. 

Giles joined Sportech in November 2017 as non-executive director before progressing to non-executive Chairman in July 2019. During his tenure Giles has overseen transformational change in the business of the Group, in particular the disposals of a number of divisions and reduction in the overall size of the business whilst returning significant cash to shareholders. With the transformational work to date completed and the smaller business going forward, Giles felt that the time was apposite for change. 

Richard McGuire, a current non-executive director will step up to the Chairman role. Richard brings extensive experience of the Company to the role.  Clive Whiley, a current non-executive director will become senior independent director.

The Board would like to thank Mr Vardey for his considerable service to the Company since taking on the Chairmanship in July 2019 and welcome Mr McGuire to his new role.

Commenting on his appointment, Richard McGuire said: “Giles brought more than 35 years of business and boardroom experience to the role and served the Company professionally at every stage. I very much look forward to working with the Sportech Board and wider team and continuing the core strategic initiative to generate attractive shareholder returns.”

Giles Vardey said: “I am extremely proud to have served Sportech for the last five years. Collectively, we transformed the business, building a more robust platform and strong balance sheet for the future execution of the Board’s strategic aims.”

Andrew Lindley, Chief Executive Officer, said: “I would like to thank Giles for the energy and passion he has brought to the role as Chairman. He has steered the Group admirably during its recent and significant transformation as well as through the unprecedented trading challenges brought about by the pandemic.”

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