Historic newspaper wholesaler Smiths News has appointed a new chief financial officer. The Swindon-headquartered company said Richard Clay would join the business "no later" than January 30, next year.
Smiths News announced in March its former finance chief, Paul Baker, had quit to join a large unnamed private firm in another sector.
Mr Clay is joining Smiths News from ZIGUP, an integrated mobility solutions provider, where he currently holds the role of Interim finance chief and º£½ÇÊÓƵ&I group finance director.
He joined ZIGUP in May 2018, and has held a variety of roles since, including head of group strategy, financial planning and analysis, and investor relations.
He also previously held several finance director and finance chief postisions at Barclays, in the business and corporate banking divisions.
Mr Clay will immediately be appointed as a director of the company on joining, Smiths News said.
David Blackwood, chairman of Smiths News, said: "I am delighted to welcome Richard to Smiths News as chief financial officer.
"Richard joins at an exciting time for the business as we continue to capitalise on our first-class newspaper and magazine distribution capabilities and to further diversify across the specialist distribution market.
"We look forward to working with Richard as he brings his wealth of financial, strategic and commercial expertise to help drive these revenue streams, alongside continuing to leverage our existing skills and capabilities."
In January, Smiths News said its performance for the 2025 financial year was likely to be in line with expectations. The historic business is aiming to deliver adjusted pre-tax profit £33.3m for the year ending August 30, 2025.
Last year the company confirmed it had secured a new long-term contract with Daily Mirror and Daily Express publisher Reach.
