Sir Jon Thompson is set to become the chair of Frasers Group, succeeding David Daly in 2025.
- Thompson joined Frasers Group as a non-executive director in June 2024 and has extensive experience in public service and finance.
- His appointment has yet to be finalised, but he has developed a good working relationship with Mike Ashley and Michael Murray.
- Thompson’s career includes leadership roles at HS2, the Financial Reporting Council, and HMRC.
- His previous roles indicate a strong background in overseeing major projects and change management.
Sir Jon Thompson, who joined Frasers Group as a non-executive director in June 2024, is poised to ascend to the role of chairman once David Daly steps down in 2025. This anticipated leadership change is reflective of Frasers Group’s strategy to leverage Thompson’s extensive experience in both public service and finance, as reported by Sky News.
Thompson’s career is marked by significant leadership positions, including his current chairmanship at HS2 since 2023, previous CEO role at the Financial Reporting Council from 2019 to 2023, and as CEO of HMRC from 2016 to 2019. His tenure at HMRC and the Financial Reporting Council underscores his adeptness in managing large-scale organisations and driving regulatory oversight.
The potential appointment also highlights Thompson’s effective collaboration with key figures in the Frasers Group, namely Mike Ashley and his son-in-law, Michael Murray, who serves as the company’s CEO. This collaborative dynamic is expected to bolster the strategic direction of the group.
Thompson’s earlier career further cements his qualifications, having served as the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Defence from 2012 to 2016, where he directed major projects and change programmes. His roles have consistently involved significant financial oversight, from his time as director general of finance at the Ministry of Defence to finance director of Ofsted.
While the appointment remains pending, the move is perceived as a strategic alignment for Frasers Group’s future endeavours, reflecting a continuation of its leadership evolution.
Thompson’s anticipated appointment as chairman represents a strategic move for Frasers Group, leveraging his extensive experience and leadership skills.
