Speedy Hire appoints former Ricardo exec as CFO retires

11th Mar 2026 10:27

(Sharecast News) - Shares in Speedy Hire rose on Wednesday after the tool rental firm announced the replacement of its chief financial officer with the finance veteran Judith Cottrell.

Current CFO Paul Rayner, who recently indicated that he was considering retirement from executive life at the end of 2026, will now leave the company on 1 July after the publication of Speedy Hire's annual results. He will have been on the board for three years.

"Judith's selection and availability has resulted in Paul's decision and the succession process concluding more quickly than anticipated," the company said.

Cottrell, who was most recently CFO of auto parts company Ricardo, previously was group finance director at consultancy RPS Group, and is said to have "extensive experience in senior financial and operational roles".

"I am delighted to welcome Judith to the board as chief financial officer and at such an important time for the business as we continue to execute our strategy," said chief executive Dan Evans.

"Judith's experience in leading finance functions, along with her extensive knowledge of the sectors we serve, and strong overall business leadership experience make her an ideal choice for Speedy Hire."

Speedy Hire shares were up 3.0% at 23.53p by 1055 GMT.