CVS Group plc announced that Richard Fairman has informed the Board of his intention to retire from his role as Chief Executive Officer for personal reasons. Richard will remain in post until a successor is appointed, to ensure an orderly transition, and he will continue to drive the business forward in the meantime. Since joining CVS in 2018 as CFO and assuming the role of CEO in 2019, Richard has led the Group through a period of significant strategic progress in support of its purpose to provide the best possible care to animals.
Under Richard's leadership, CVS has built a culture centered on clinical excellence, strengthened its position as veterinary employer of choice and delivered sustainable growth alongside successful international expansion into the Australian market. During Richard's tenure, the Group has grown to approximately 9,000 employees including approximately 2,500 vets and 3,300 veterinary nurses and patient care assistants across approximately 475 practices and EBITDA has nearly tripled. Richard also guided the business through to the conclusion of the CMA process and, during the same period, oversaw the Group's step-up to the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange and its subsequent inclusion into the FTSE 250 index.
