Kate Swann

Former WH Smith boss Kate Swann is to become CEO of SSP

Kate Swann, who stepped down as CEO of WH Smith last week, has been named the new CEO of travel retail company SSP.

Swann, who was at the helm of WH Smith for nine years, will take up her new role on 4 September.

“I am delighted to be joining SSP and look forward to working with the team as we continue to grow the business and deliver for our customers,” she said.

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Swann will replace Andrew Lynch, who is standing down after nine years as CEO.

He said: “I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to lead SSP for a long and exciting period and I am proud to leave it in good shape, with a strong track record of sales and profit growth, an exciting pipeline, and an excellent management team.”

SSP chairman Vagn Soerensen added: “I very much look forward to working with Kate to continue developing SSP in the years to come. SSP will benefit from Kate’s vast retail experience from WH Smith in accelerating growth and working with business partners, while continuously improving the customer experience.”

SSP runs stores and fast food outlets in rail stations and airports, including M&S Simply Food, Starbucks and Burger King under franchise.

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