Hodson expected to hand reins to Blanc

Philip Hodson, Oval

Industry speculation is mounting that Oval chief executive Philip Hodson could be about to hand over the reins to his second-in-command Peter Blanc.

Oval refused to comment, but market sources suggested that the business has been gearing up for Hodson’s by making a number of board-level change over the past six months.

He would be expected to maintain a significant holding in the company and seat on the board after stepping down from an executive role. Hodson is currently chairman of Marylebone Cricket Club – a demanding and time-consuming secondary role.

Blanc was appointed deputy-chief executive in September last year. He was given a strategic and management role in preparation for Hodson’s departure.