Whatman plc ("Whatman" or the “Company”), the leading global supplier of separations technology to the life sciences industry, today announces that Bob Thian, Chairman, has informed the Board that he wishes to stand down from his position at a date to be agreed with the Board but no later than the date of next year’s Annual General Meeting (22 May 2008).

A committee of the Board has been set up to consider both internal and external candidates and thereafter make a selection.

Bob Thian has been Chairman of Whatman for five years.  He took up his position in November 2002 at a time when the Company’s performance was in decline. He carried out a fundamental restructuring of Whatman’s operations and oversaw the acquisition of Schleicher & Schuell GmbH in Germany at the end of 2004 which expanded Whatman’s activities into Europe and significantly enhanced the Company’s earnings performance. 

Simon May, senior independent non-executive Director of Whatman, commented:

“On behalf of the Board, I would like to express our gratitude to Bob Thian who has made a very substantial contribution to Whatman during his time as Chairman.  He turned the Company round at a low point in its fortunes and has delivered substantial value to shareholders over the past five years.  An energetic new management is now in place and the Company has a clear strategic direction ahead.  Our search for a new Chairman is under way and we shall be reporting progress in due course.”