Causeway Capital Management Endorses Leo Quinn as Executive Chair of WH Smith, Citing Need for Strong Leadership at Pivotal Moment
Causeway Capital Management LLC, the largest shareholder in WH Smith plc, has publicly expressed its full support for the Board of Directors’ recommendation to appoint Leo Quinn as Executive Chair of the company. Acting on behalf of its clients, Causeway emphasized that the appointment comes at a decisive moment for WH Smith, as the company works to stabilize operations, restore performance, and position itself for long-term growth.
Causeway believes that WH Smith’s recovery and future success depend on decisive leadership, clear strategic direction, and disciplined execution. In this context, the firm stated its confidence that Leo Quinn possesses the experience, leadership capability, and operational expertise required to guide the company through its next phase.
Leo Quinn brings a proven track record of leading complex organizations through transformation and recovery. His previous leadership roles at Balfour Beatty, QinetiQ, and De La Rue are widely recognized for driving operational improvements, strengthening governance, and delivering sustainable value for shareholders. Causeway noted that his experience in navigating challenging market environments and implementing strategic change makes him particularly well-suited to assume an executive leadership role at WH Smith during this critical period.
As WH Smith continues to address market pressures and evolving consumer dynamics, Causeway views the appointment of an Executive Chair as a constructive step toward reinforcing accountability, sharpening strategic focus, and accelerating progress on key initiatives. The firm underscored that strong leadership at the Board and executive level will be essential to restoring confidence among investors, employees, and other stakeholders.
Causeway Capital Management also extended its appreciation to outgoing Chair Annette Court for her leadership and service during a difficult chapter for the company. In addition, the firm acknowledged the broader Board of Directors for their efforts in steering WH Smith through a period marked by operational and market challenges, while laying the groundwork for the company’s next stage of development.
About Causeway Capital Management LLC
Founded in 2001, Causeway Capital Management LLC is a majority employee-owned investment management firm specializing in global, international, emerging markets, small-cap, and sustainable equity strategies. The firm was co-founded by Sarah Ketterer, Chief Executive Officer, and Harry Hartford, President.
As of December 2025, Causeway manages approximately $71 billion in assets on behalf of institutional investors worldwide. The firm is known for its integrated investment approach, combining rigorous fundamental research with quantitative analysis to generate differentiated insights and construct disciplined, high-conviction portfolios.
Headquartered in Los Angeles, Causeway Capital Management serves a diverse global client base across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and the Asia-Pacific region.
