Smiths News has confirmed that its incoming chief financial officer (CFO), Richard Clay, will join the business on 2 February 2026.

The news wholesaler has also announced that Paul Baker will be stepping down as an executive director and CFO, to join a large private business operating in a different sector, with his last day at Smiths News set to be 21 November 2025.

As part of the CFO transition, Smiths News confirmed that George Cooper, currently the group’s financial controller, will be assuming the role of interim CFO to cover the period between Baker’s departure and Clay’s arrival.

Cooper joined Smiths News in 2017, and his experience includes previous roles as finance manager at Associated British Foods, as well over 13 years with EY working in the audit division.

In the same announcement, Smiths News also confirmed it is set to announce its latest full-year results on 4 November.

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