Fenner appoints new CEO

London – Fenner PLC has appointed Brett Simpson as its new chief executive officer, replacing Mark Abrahams who is retiring.

Simpson will join Fenner on 1 May 2018 and take over from Abrahams as CEO from that date, the UK rubber products group announced 20 Dec.

Abrahams temporarily resumed the role of CEO at short notice in January 2016. He will retire from his executive position and the board upon Simpson’s appointment but be retained on a consultancy basis to facilitate the handover.

Simpson has been CEO of Low & Bonar PLC since 2014. A qualified chemical engineer, he started his career at Dow Chemical Co. in 1986 and has extensive knowledge of polymers and industrial textiles from roles in the US, China and Europe.

"With his industry background, track record and international experience he will bring deep strategic and commercial acumen and strong general management skills as we move Fenner into its next phase of growth," said Vanda Murray, Fenner chairman.

Murray also thanked Abrahams for his work, including his step-back into the CEO role and “for having stabilised the group and… returned it to growth.”