Trading director Siôn Hamilton leaves Foyles

Siôn Hamilton, trading director at Foyles, has left the company after 15 years in order to address his "work-life balance".

Hamilton joined Foyles in 2001 and was appointed ground floor manager at Charing Cross Road in 2004. In 2007 he joined the restructured management team for the company, becoming manager of Charing Cross Road in 2009.

Paul Currie, c.e.o. of Foyles, expressed his "profound gratitude" to Hamilton for the "immense and lasting contribution he has made to Foyles".

Currie said: “His work leading the monumental project of developing our iconic new flagship transformed the business and every time we walk through the doors we will be reminded of the impact he made and the debt we owe him. Siôn is a true ambassador for books and bookselling and I speak for myself and all of my colleagues when I say we will miss him a great deal."

Currie added: "While I am sad that Siôn has taken this decision, I understand that having a board-level role, a lengthy daily commute [from East Anglia] and a young family have made it hard for him to maintain a positive work-life balance, which this change will give him a chance to redress. I know that whatever he does next he will approach with wisdom, thoughtfulness and authority, and I wish him all the very best.”

Hamilton said: "It is with equal parts sadness and excitement that I depart from Foyles. I have spent over 15 glorious years at the heart of the business and have had the opportunity to play a part in its growth, including the development and launch of our stores - especially our flagship at 107 Charing Cross Road. But now it is time for pastures new - time to take stock before heading off for new adventures. I wish everyone well - from my fellow directors to booksellers - but in many ways it is not too much of a goodbye, as I fully intend to remain in touch with all the wonderful people I have worked with.  I feel lucky to have been able to call such a great place work."

Hamilton's last day was Friday (28th April). The Bookseller understands that Foyles is not currently recruiting for a replacement trading director to join its board.