01.08.2022

Speedy confirms new CEO

UK rental group Speedy has appointed Dan Evans as chief executive designate. He will take over at the start of October from Russell Down who is retiring after seven and a half years with the company having joined in 2015 as finance director, becoming chief executive a few months later following a couple of 'rocky years' for the company.

Evans joined Speedy in late 2008 as a depot manager in East London and has worked his way up through the company holding numerous roles including regional director and contracts director. He was appointed as chief operating officer in 2019 and is currently responsible for operational performance in the UK and Ireland including sales, business development and marketing. Prior to Speedy Evans worked with UK builder Anderson for four years as a sales manager.
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Dan Evans

While Down will step down from the Speedy board and his role as chief executive at the end of September, he will remain employed by the business until next May, in order to ensure an effective transition. See: bounce back for Speedy.

Chairman David Shearer said: "I am pleased that after a thorough recruitment process supported by external consultants that Dan Evans has been appointed as chief executive. Dan knows our customers and the business well, has performed exceptionally as chief operating officer, and has been integral to the development of our strategy with Russell and the board. I look forward to working closely with Dan on the continuing execution of this growth strategy. I would also like to thank Russell once again for his significant contribution as chief executive and wish him well for the future."

Vertikal Comment

It refreshing to see a major publicly quoted company such as Speedy promoting from within rather than parachuting in an external accounting type with no experience of the company or industry.

Without taking anything away from Russel Downs’ achievements, it is also encouraging to see the appointment of someone with a substantial experience of working directly with customers and employees throughout the company. It is typically good for morale and also good for the business. Success depends on a deep understanding of the customer base, the market and the staff who service them and nothing to do with the P&L which merely a scoresheet.

Hopefully this proves good for Speedy employees, customers and shareholders.