High street retailer WH Smith has named Annette Court as its new chair.
The former Direct Line boss will replace Henry Staunton when he retires after nine years in the role.
The Swindon-headquartered company said Ms Court, who is currently chair of insurer Admiral Group, would join the board as a non-executive director and chair-designate on September 1 before succeeding Mr Staunton on December 1.
