Smith & Nephew plc (LON:SN, NYSE: SNN), the global medical technology company, has announced that Anne-Françoise Nesmes has informed the Board of her intention to step down as Chief Financial Officer during the second quarter of 2024, on a date to be agreed. The Board has initiated an external search for her successor.
Deepak Nath, Chief Executive Officer, said: “I would like to thank Anne-Françoise for her leadership and significant contribution to Smith+Nephew. She was instrumental in helping the Group navigate the financial challenges of the pandemic and in laying the foundation for our transformation under the 12-point plan. On a personal note, I have been very grateful for her support and counsel which I know will continue over the coming months. When the time comes, she will leave Smith+Nephew with our best wishes.”
Roberto Quarta, Chair of the Board, said: “On behalf of the Board I would like to thank Anne-Françoise for her important contribution at Smith+Nephew and for the early communication of her intention to step-down, which will support an orderly succession. She has been a highly valued member of the Board and a strong and dynamic leader of the business, and we wish her well for the future.”
Anne-Françoise Nesmes, said: “It has been a privilege to work alongside Deepak and the leadership team and I have every confidence that Smith+Nephew is on a path to stronger performance. Given our progress, I feel now is the right moment to reflect and consider my next professional challenge. I would like to thank my colleagues for their strong support and dedication, and remain fully committed to continuing our work together until I leave next year.”
Further announcements regarding Anne-Françoise’s leaving date and the appointment of her successor will be made in due course.