East to Succeed Rishton as Rolls-Royce CEO
by Joseph R. Fonseca
April 22, 2015
John Rishton will retire as chief executive of Rolls-Royce on July 2, 2015 and will be succeeded by Warren East, whose appointment follows an extensive international search, the company announced today.
Warren East was CEO of ARM Holdings from 2001 to 2013. Warren has been a nonexecutive director of Rolls-Royce since January 2014, also serving as a nonexecutive director on the boards of BT, De La Rue, Dyson, Micron Inc. and Digital Catapult. His intention is to stand down from all but one of his current roles as a nonexecutive Director, in line with Rolls-Royce company policy.
Commenting on his appointment, East said, “[Rolls-Royce] is well positioned in growth markets, with world class engineering skills and a proud record of innovation and delivery. I have a strong desire to return to an executive position with the energy and enthusiasm a role like this demands. The markets which Rolls-Royce serves and the technology it deploys are fascinating.”
Ian Davis, chairman of Rolls-Royce, said, “I am very pleased that Warren East will become the new chief executive of Rolls-Royce following John Rishton’s retirement. Warren has an outstanding record as CEO of ARM Holdings. He is an engineer by training; he has a deep understanding of technology and of developing long-term partnerships. He has proven strategic and leadership skills in a global business and a strong record of value creation.
Davis continued, “I and all my board colleagues would like to thank John Rishton for his commitment and leadership. We respect his decision to retire after more than four years of dedicated service. He has led the company during a period of significant growth and transformation. During his tenure profits have increased by 69%, the order book has grown by 24% and the share price has risen 63%.”
Rishton said, “After 14 years as a CEO and CFO I have decided it is time for a change in lifestyle. We have made good progress transforming Rolls-Royce and have a strong team in place. While there is clearly more to do, the company is better placed to face the future. I am sure Warren will lead the business successfully through the next phase and I wish him and everyone at Rolls-Royce well.”
