Smiths News has announced the appointment of Richard Clay as its new chief financial officer (CFO).

He will replace current CFO, Paul Baker who in March informed the company’s board of his intention to step down as a director and CFO in order to join a large private business operating in a different sector.

Clay will join Smiths News with effect from a date still to be agreed, although this is expected to be no later than 30 January 2026.

He has extensive experience in senior finance and strategic roles across financial and support services, and will join the company from ZIGUP, an integrated mobility solutions provider, where he currently holds the role of interim CFO and UK&I group finance director.

Chairman of Smiths News, David Blackwood, commented: “I am delighted to welcome Richard to Smiths News as CFO. 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.”

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