FirstGroup names Intertek boss as new chairman

Transport giant FirstGroup today said Wolfhart Hauser, the chief executive of product testing group Intertek, is to take the helm as chairman.

Hauser, who has been the boss of Intertek for ten years, will replace John McFarlane, who announced in September that he would be stepping down to take up the chairmanship of Barclays.

Drummond Hall, senior independent director at FirstGroup, said: “[Hauser] has a strong track record of driving profitable growth and value creation in a large international organisation, as well as significant board experience in major UK listed companies.

“We are very pleased to be able to attract an individual of Wolfhart’s calibre and experience to help guide the group’s continued development.”

Hauser will join the Aberdeen-based group’s board as a non-executive director and chairman designate on 18 May. He will succeed McFarlane in the role following its annual meeting on 16 July.

“With Wolfhart as chairman, I will be leaving FirstGroup in capable hands, McFarlane said.

“He has an exemplary track record of sustained value creation and is a highly seasoned non-executive director. I wish him and all at FirstGroup well for the future.”