6th Feb 2006 14:36
6th February 2006 The Sage Group plc Appointment of Chairman The Sage Group plc ("Sage") today announces the appointment of Sir JulianHorn-Smith as a non-executive director, with effect from 3 March 2006, and asChairman of the Board, with effect from 1 August 2006. Sage Chairman MichaelJackson will retire from the Board on 1 August 2006, having joined the Board in1984 and been its Chairman since 1997.Sir Julian, aged 57, has been a senior executive of Vodafone, one of theEurope's largest public companies, since 1984 and will retire from the companyin July 2006. Since 2005, he has been Vodafone's Deputy Chief Executive, andbefore that, from 2001 until 2004, he had been the Group's Chief OperatingOfficer. This followed a number of other senior roles in the company, beginningwith his involvement in the launch of Vodafone in 1984. Sir Julian is also anon-executive director of Smiths Group plc and Lloyds TSB Group.After a career during which he helped transform Vodafone from a UK businessinto an international brand and organisation, Sir Julian will bring to Sageconsiderable experience as an international business leader, in particulararound investment in and integration of acquisitions.Michael Jackson leaves after 22 years with Sage, having guided the Groupthrough its initial growth to become UK market leader, its flotation as alisted company and its international expansion through a series of successfulacquisitions.Lindsay Bury, senior non-executive director of Sage, said: "We are delighted towelcome Sir Julian to the Sage Board. He brings a wealth of experience inbuilding and managing businesses in competitive and complex markets. The Boardwould also like to thank Michael Jackson for his substantial contribution toSage's growth over the past 22 years, and particularly for his guidance of ourinternational expansion through acquisition. He leaves the Group well-placedfor continuing growth."There are no other details requiring disclosure under Listing Rule 9.6.13,relating to further information on this appointment, including other publiccompany directorships.EnquiriesThe Sage Group plc 0191 294 3055 Tulchan Communications 020 7353 4200 Paul Walker, Chief Executive Julie Foster Paul Harrison, Finance Director Kirstie Hamilton Phil Branston, Investor Relations ENDSAGE GROUP PLCRelated Shares:
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