Peter Boddy will retire as chairman of ten-pin bowling operator Hollywood Bowl Group, on January 30, 2025 after ten years of service.
Darren Shapland will succeed Boddy as chair of the board and nomination committee chairman, pending his election as a director at the AGM.
Shapland has extensive experience in retail and consumer businesses, having served as CFO for J Sainsbury, Superdrug, a number of divisions of Burton Group, and CFO and CEO for Carpetright. He is currently a non-executive director at JD Sports Fashion as well as chair of a number of Venture Capital backed and privately owned businesses.
Boddy said: "After ten memorable and exciting years at the helm of this amazing business, this is a good moment for change.
“I am extremely happy that the board has proposed Darren to succeed me as chairman. Darren is someone with immense business experience, combined with qualities of independence, integrity and ambition.
“I shall very much enjoy watching the company's continued domestic and international growth in the years ahead."
Hollywood Bowl CEO Stephen Burns added: "Peter has been an exceptional chairman over the last ten years.
“On behalf of the board, I'd like to thank Peter for his insight and counsel.
“We are immensely grateful for his support which has helped Hollywood Bowl Group develop, grow and achieve so much during his tenure. Peter will be succeeded by Darren who brings a depth of financial, business and international knowledge that will help Hollywood Bowl Group reach its ambitious goals."
Shapland stated: "I am delighted to be asked to take over as chairman of this vibrant and growing international leisure business. I look forward to working with the board and the management team and supporting the group in achieving its ambitions for further growth."
