Henry Birch hands notice as Rank leader

Issuing a short corporate statement, FTSE-listed gambling operator Rank Group Plc has confirmed the departure of Henry Birch as Group Chief Executive.

Updating the market, Rank governance informs that Birch has handed-in his 12-month notice, and will be joining UK highstreet retailing group Shop Direct as new Chief Executive.

Rank governance has begun the executive search for Birch’s replacement and will make an official announcement when his successor has been identified.

For 2018, Birch will maintain his current CEO role with Rank Group to ensure an orderly handover with the firm’s next leader.

Leading Rank operations since 2014, Henry Birch has been successful at revitalising Rank’s Grosvenor and Mecca digital assets.

Furthermore, as Rank leader, Birch delivered a new cost-effective retail programme for Rank’s land-based casino and bingo properties

“The Board would like to thank Henry for his significant contribution to Rank over the past four years and will continue to work closely with him and the executive management team during this leadership transition.”