Johnson Service appoints Peter Egan as CEO

Johnson Service Group has appointed Peter Egan - currently the managing director of its Apparelmaster workwear rental business - as its new chief executive officer.

The company said on Tuesday that Egan will be appointed to the board of directors as chief operating officer ahead of assuming the role of CEO, which will see him take over from Chris Sander. Egan's transition to COO will take effect from 1 April 2018, while Sander has agreed to remain with the group until the end of 2018 to ensure a smooth transition period.

Egan has more than 25 years of experience in the textile rental sector. He joined Johnson Service in 1998 and has been managing director of Apparelmaster since 2014.

Chairman Paul Moody said: "Following Chris' decision to retire, the board is delighted to announce Peter Egan as his successor. We anticipate a smooth, well-managed and effective transition process between Chris and Peter during the coming year.

"Peter is an enormously talented leader and this appointment recognises his significant contribution to the development of the group to date. The board is confident in his ability to lead JSG through its next stage of growth as we focus on continuing to build long-term shareholder value."

At 1300 GMT, the shares were up 1.1% to 138.75p.