WHSmith North America Announces Planned Retirement of Chief Development Officer Roderick “Roddy” McOwan; Appoints Yasmin Sheriff as Successor
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LAS VEGAS — WHSmith North America announced that Roderick “Roddy” McOwan, chief development officer, has shared his intention to retire following a planned transition period. McOwan will remain with the company through the end of 2026 to ensure continuity of operations and partnerships. Yasmin Sheriff has been appointed chief development officer and will assume the role effective June 8, 2026.
McOwan joined the company in 2012 and has played a significant role in shaping WHSmith North America’s development strategy, advancing long-term store growth plans, and building strong relationships across the industry.
“It is nearly impossible to overstate Roddy’s impact on the business we have today,” said Huw Crwys-Williams, CEO of WHSmith North America. “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.”
As WHSmith North America continues to pursue significant growth across the North American market, Sheriff brings extensive experience in airport business development to the role. She previously held senior leadership positions with HMSHost, Stellar Partners and OTG, most recently serving as executive vice president of global business development.
“We are excited to welcome Yasmin to the WHSmith North America team,” said Huw Crwys-Williams, CEO of WHSmith North America. “Her depth of experience and proven leadership in the airport concessions space will be instrumental as we continue to expand our footprint.”
During the transition period, McOwan will work closely with Sheriff to support a seamless handoff. Following the transition, McOwan will move into an advisory role, continuing to support the company and its relationships across North America.
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About WHSmith North America
WHSmith is a leading global travel retailer with more than 1,700 stores in over 30 countries. In 2018, the company acquired InMotion, the largest airport-based technology retailer in North America, and in 2019, it acquired Marshall Retail Group (MRG), a leading specialty retailer in the airport and casino-resort marketplace. WHSmith North America, which includes MRG and InMotion, now operates more than 340 specialty retail stores in airports and resorts across the continent.
Media Contact:
Kirvin Doak Communications
WHSmithNorthAmericaPR@kirvindoak.com
