Executive and non-executive recruiter, Warren Partners, has announced the appointment of Ian Durant as a NED to their Board and Chair of their Employee Ownership Trust Board (EOT).
Ian, who is an experienced Chair and non-executive director, is currently non-executive Chair at food retailer and manufacturer Greggs Plc and furniture retailer DFS Plc. He has previously held positions with Capital and Counties Properties, Greene King, Home Retail Group and Westbury. Ian brings extensive experience of customer-focused, consumer-driven businesses and a strong background in finance and transformation in medium and large-sized listed companies.
A leading voice on building balanced and effective Boards, Ian is the FTSE All-Share category winner of this year’s Non-Executive Director Awards, which are supported by The Sunday Times.
Founding Partner and Executive Chair of Warren Partners, Joëlle Warren, continues in her role, combining Board responsibilities with supporting clients, working alongside Managing Partner, Victoria Gee.
Ian’s role will bring both a fresh and independent perspective to the Board and ensure sound governance of the EOT, whilst acting as a custodian of the Warren Partners values. That is, being generous, inclusive, courageous, ethical and having fun. His appointment to Chair the EOT further supports the transition of the business to employee ownership last year, and provides a strong foundation for continued and long-term, sustainable growth.
Commenting on his appointment, Joëlle Warren says: “I’m delighted to welcome Ian to the Warren Partners Board. His customer-centric approach and significant experience, expertise and wisdom will prove a major asset across both roles.
“As a purpose led business, we are committed to building diverse boards and leadership teams to deliver positive sustainable change. We do this with heart because people matter to us.
As an Employee Owned Business, everyone at Warren Partners plays their part in driving our purpose and building our future. Ian will be a great asset in ensuring that this is achieved.”
Adds Ian Durant: “Warren Partners is a real gem of a recruitment firm. I’m delighted to be joining Joëlle and the team and to have the opportunity to contribute to the strategic direction of a business known for its excellence in building diverse Boards and leadership teams. I’m also looking forward to helping promote the long-term interests of its employees as Chair of the Employee Ownership Trust and as a first step, getting to know everyone.”