ITV plc (LON:ITV) today announced that Ian Griffiths, Chief Operating Officer and Group Finance Director, has advised the Board of his intention to retire from ITV in the next 12 months. The search for his successor will now commence and Ian will continue with his existing responsibilities until a successor has been appointed.
Ian started his working career in 1988 with Ernst & Young before moving to the media group EMAP plc in 1994 where he held a number of roles, latterly as Group Finance Director. Ian joined ITV in September 2008 as Group Finance Director and has played a key role in leading the turnaround of the company. He gained recognition for his achievements in winning the FTSE 100 FD of the Year in 2013 and has regularly been voted one of the top European CFOs in City surveys. In April 2017, Ian took on additional responsibilities and was appointed Group Chief Operating Officer.
Commenting on the announcement, Sir Peter Bazalgette, Chairman of ITV plc, said:
“Ian has been a key part of the management team that transformed ITV’s performance. The strategy that Ian helped develop and deliver has created a strong platform for our future success and delivered real value for shareholders. On behalf of the Board and our shareholders I would like to thank Ian for all he has done for ITV.”
Carolyn McCall, ITV Chief Executive, said:
“Ian leaves ITV in strong financial health. He has helped me steer the strategy refresh and will continue to be involved in embedding the implementation over the next few months. I and everyone at ITV will be sorry to see him leave and we wish him all the very best for the future.”
Ian Griffiths said:
“ITV is a brilliant business with superb people and I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here. I am immensely proud of everything that we have achieved at ITV, not least in keeping the business together through the financial crisis and then delivering strong shareholder returns from 2010 onwards. I will be leaving a great team and a business in good shape.
“I wish Carolyn and the team all the very best as they continue to take ITV from strength to strength.”
