Royal Mail Chief to step down in a few weeks

After a turbulent and two-year tenure at the Royal Mail, Simon Thompson will likely step down in a few weeks.

Unions have accused the chief executive of inflaming a bitter industrial dispute. His credibility has also been questioned after an appearance before a Commons Select Committee.

According to Sky News, his departure could be announced this week. Some members of the International Distributions Services board, the parent company of Royal Mail have concluded that a new leadership is required.

Sky cites other sources that claim Thompson has become more disillusioned with his job over the past few weeks.

Royal Mail and IDS spokespersons said that they would not comment on rumours or speculation.

Thompson, who joined IDS as a non executive in 2017, took over the role of chief executive at Royal Mail. He tried to implement large-scale changes and cost-cutting initiatives, but was met by fierce resistance and strike action.

was able to reach a tentative agreement last month with the Communication Workers Union. The union has been on strike 18 times in the past 12 months. The members are voting on a pay deal of 10% over three years that also includes Sunday working. However, the CWU claims it has stopped the “Uberisation”.

The union accused management of “a total lack of integrity” when changes in work practices were implemented at offices all over the country without agreement.

Thompson was accused by the MPs of “incompetence” or “cleverlessness” after appearing in front of them in January. He was recalled due to questions regarding his evidence. They asked the regulator, Ofcom to investigate if the company had violated legal service requirements.

Thompson also dealt with a Ransomware attack that was linked to Russian hackers and stopped international mail delivery from the UK.