Welcoming the appointment, Oasis chief executive Justin Ash said: “Sir Stuart’s experience of consumer engagement and brand building will be invaluable to the team as we build Oasis in to the go-to brand in dentistry and related services. He brings unique consumer and corporate experience, as we continue to bring a fresh perspective to the dentistry sector by taking our customers’ dentistry experience to the next level.”
Sir Stuart Rose said: “I’m delighted to be asked to be chairman. I look forward to working with Justin and the team in helping them refine the consumer experience and realise ambitious growth plans for the brand.”
Sir Stuart has had an extensive career in building strong-branded businesses having previously been chairman and chief executive of Marks & Spencer, and chief executive of Arcadia Group plc, Argos plc and Booker plc. He is a non-executive director of Land Securities plc, and chairman of Ocado plc, Blue Inc and Fat Face, respectively. Sir Stuart is a member of Bridgepoint’s advisory board and a member of HSBC’s European advisory council.
Founded in 1996, Oasis operates over 200 dental practices across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, with over 2000 people, of which 800 are dentists. Its practices offer a full range of general and specialist services. NHS treatments include general dental care such as check-ups, filings, root canal treatment, crowns and orthodontics for children.
For the year ended March 31 2013 Oasis reported turnover of £150m and EBITDAE of
£19m. Oasis was acquired by Bridgepoint, the international private equity firm, in May 2013.