USA. WHSmith North America has announced Chief Development Officer Roderick ‘Roddy’ McOwan’s intention to retire following a planned transition period.
Yasmin Sheriff has been appointed as McOwan’s replacement and will assume the role on 8 June.
The highly regarded McOwan will remain with the company through the end of 2026 to ensure continuity of operations and partnerships. WHSmith North America embraces WHSmith, InMotion and Marshall Retail Group stores.
McOwan joined Marshall Retail Group (subsequently acquired by WHSmith in 2020) in 2012. Over the ensuing years, he has played a key role in shaping WHSmith North America’s development strategy, advancing long-term store growth plans, and building strong relationships across the industry.
Earlier, McOwan held senior roles with SSP America and Pacific Gateway Concessions.
“It is nearly impossible to overstate Roddy’s impact on the business we have today,” said WHSmith North America CEO Huw Crwys-Williams.
“We are deeply grateful for the expertise, integrity and steady leadership he has brought to WHSmith North America over the past 14 years.”
Reflecting on his tenure, McOwan said, “The harder you work, the luckier you get, and I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with some of the finest clients, joint venture partners, colleagues and the best team a leader could hope for.”
WHSmith North America said Sheriff brings extensive experience in airport business development to the role as the company pursues robust growth across the North American market,
She previously held senior leadership positions with HMSHost, Stellar Partners and OTG, most recently serving as OTG Executive Vice President of Global Business Development since mid-2021.
