Toymaster has written to members today with a personal address from Ciaran Fitzpatrick, announcing his departure from the board effective from 1 August 2020.
Chris Blatcher from JAC stores will take the reins as the new chairman, having been a Toymaster board director since 2016.
Ciaran will remain, by request, as a non-executive director and chairman of the merchandise committee.
“I also want to take this opportunity to personally thank Andy Taylor who is stepping down as a non-executive director from 1st August 2020.
“Andy’s employer, Ramsdens of Grimsby joined Toymaster in 1992. Andy served on the marketing committee for many years until I poached him and he served on the merchandise committee until 2015. He joined the board of Toymaster in 2007 and now needs to concentrate on Ramsden’s business, which no longer sells toys.”
Ciaran continued: “I want to thank my other non-executive directors Roger and Julian and our executives Ian, Colin and Yogi for all their support and effort during my term.
“A special thank you to all the team in Northampton for helping to make Toymaster the super company it is today. These changes have been in the pipeline for the last year and are all about ensuring the proper succession for the continued success of Toymaster.
“Looking forward to seeing you all at future shows after the virus and it is safe to do so. Wishing you all a successful season.”