Shoe Zone PLC announced changes to the board of directors. Firstly, the company's Non-Executive Chairman, Ian Filby, is stepping down to enable Anthony Smith, the company's CEO, to move to the role of Executive Chairman. Ian joined the board at the time of the IPO in 2014 and has provided significant retail experience to the company during his tenure.

Secondly, Anthony Smith will become the Company's Executive Chairman. Anthony has led Shoe Zone for 20 years through a series of acquisitions and the company's IPO in 2014. Anthony will continue to have a hands-on role in the company and will have particular responsibility for the property portfolio and strategy.

Thirdly, Nick Davis, the company's CFO, will become CEO. Nick has been with the business for 13 years and is the natural successor to drive the Company's growth plans. Nick will continue to manage the finance function until a suitable replacement is appointed.

Fourthly, Jeremy Sharman will become Non-Executive Deputy Chairman. Jeremy has been a Non-Executive Director of the Company since the IPO and has provided valuable insight and advice to the Board during this time. Jeremy will chair the Audit committee and sit on the Remuneration committee.

These role changes will come into effect immediately although there will be a controlled handover until a new Finance Director has been appointed and the company will provide an update when appropriate. Alongside these changes, the company will also be appointing a new Non-Executive Director to join the board and a further announcement will be made when appropriate. Lee Hennell, the Company's General Counsel, will assume the role of Company Secretary with immediate effect.