Premier Farnell taps Bain for COO - Off the Shelf - Brief Article

Electronic News, July 22, 2002 by Rob Spiegel

LONDON-BASED PREMIER FARNELL PLC HAS APPOINTED LAence Bain as COO. Bain, who will report to CEO John Hirst, will manage day-to-day operations across the entire Premier Farnell Group. Bain will concentrate on short-term delivery as well as operational improvement and synergies, according to the company.

Bain, 48, spent 18 years with Motorola, most recently as VP and director of operations for the Personal Communications Sector Europe, Middle East and Africa. The company noted he has extensive experience in international cross-border businesses and change management. "I am excited about this appointment," Hirst said. "Laurence brings exactly the right skills and operational experience to continue the progress of our change program." Hirst said appointing Bain COO would free up his time so he can focus more on pursuing growth opportunities for the company.