MacLeod to swap Atkins for Johnson Matthey

Robert Macleod is to step down as FD of FTSE 250 company Atkins in order to take up a new role as the finance chief of Johnson Matthey.

The move means MacLeod will join the ranks of the FTSE 100 finance directors, if Johnson Matthey retains its place in the top flight index.

MacLeod,a chemical engineering graduate in addition to being a qualified accountant, will officially step down as Atkins FD on 19 June, before joining the catalysts giant three days later.

Johnson Matthey said in a statement to the City: 'Johnson Matthey plc is pleased to announce the appointment later this year of Mr Robert MacLeod as an executive director and group FD designate. Mr MacLeod will join the board with effect from 22 June 2009.

'It is intended that Mr MacLeod will take over the role of group Finance Director from Mr J N Sheldrick when he retires at age 60 on 7 September 2009.'

MacLeod has been group FD of WS Atkins plc since June 2004, having joined as group Financial Controller in March 2003. He is currently a non-executive director of Aggreko plc.

Further reading:

Profile: Robert MacLeod