BrightHouse: Leo McKee retires; Hamish Paton promoted to CEO

BrightHouse announces that, after eleven years at the helm, Leo McKee will retire on 30th September 2016. BrightHouse Chairman, Henry Staunton, said: “Leo has had a long and distinguished career. At BrightHouse, his transformational leadership in customer service and with colleagues has been pivotal in developing our vibrant nationwide business. “In retirement, Leo is looking forward to spending more time pursuing his diverse social interests. He also will be able to draw upon his broad business experience in new ventures. I thank him for his contribution, and wish him the very best for the future.” Hamish Paton, Commercial Managing Director, has been appointed as Leo’s successor. He joined the company in 2006, taking up a Board position the following year. In 2009, Hamish became Commercial Director, responsible for buying, marketing and business strategy. In April 2015, he was promoted to Commercial Managing Director, to chair the Trading Board, and with accountability for buying, supply chain, marketing, and retail operations. Commenting on Hamish’s appointment, Henry Staunton said: “As a top executive, Hamish Paton has made a significant contribution to BrightHouse for more than ten years. He is an innovative thinker with exceptional interpersonal skills. His operational focus has ensured that he has been a central part of the Board’s thinking on succession planning. I’m confident that he is well qualified to step up to the CEO role, and look forward to working with him in his new capacity.” About BrightHouse BrightHouse is the UK’s leading rent-to-own retail chain, providing quality branded home electronics, domestic appliances and household furniture to customers on affordable weekly payments. A major employer in local communities, BrightHouse has some 3,000 staff working in 312 stores nationwide. BrightHouse supports the NSPCC (ChildLine in Scotland), the UK’s leading children’s charity that specialises in child protection and the prevention of cruelty to children.