Leadership Announcement: A New Chapter for Lanes Group

Lanes Group today announces an important new chapter in its continued growth and development.

For more than three decades, the business has been guided by Wayne Earnshaw, whose leadership, expertise and commitment have been instrumental in shaping the success of the Group. Since joining in 1992, Wayne has played a central role in transforming Lanes Group from a team of 15 employees into a leading organisation employing more than 4,000 people, with annual revenues exceeding £650 million.

Under Wayne’s leadership, Lanes Group has consistently evolved and strengthened its market position. A significant milestone was reached in 2024, when the business secured investment from BlackRock, marking the beginning of a new phase of growth.

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Since this investment, Lanes Group has continued to deliver strong performance, supported by ongoing investment across the business.

This has further reinforced its position as an industry leader and created a robust platform to support clients, deliver strategic ambitions and drive future growth.

With the business well-positioned for the future, and with the full support of the Board, Executive team and investors, Wayne has decided to step back from the day-to-day management of the Group.

He will remain closely involved over the coming months to support a smooth transition before moving into a new role as Vice Chairman for Strategy.

Appointment of New Chief Executive Officer

Lanes Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Joanne Gretton as Chief Executive Officer.

Jo joins us with significant leadership experience, most recently serving as CEO of Telent Technology Services, where she led the successful sale to M Group. Like Lanes Group, Telent delivers essential services to customers in critical national infrastructure sectors in the UK and Ireland. Jo brings a strong track record of leading a complex organisation through change, developing high-performing teams, creating a more engaging and supportive workplace, and delivering enhanced shareholder value.

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"I’m excited to be joining Lanes Group at such an important time for the business. Lanes has a strong reputation, fantastic people and a clear commitment to customers. I’m looking forward to building on that as we continue to grow and invest in the future."

Joanne Gretton.

Jo will formally assume her role on 29 June 2026. In the interim, she will work closely with Wayne and the wider Executive team to ensure a seamless transition.

“It’s been a privilege to lead Lanes Group and I’m hugely proud of everything we’ve achieved together. I’m genuinely delighted that Jo is stepping in as CEO, she brings the right experience, energy and leadership to take the business forward. I’m excited to see her lead Lanes into its next chapter.”

Wayne Earnshaw