Interbrand’s chairmen quit

John Murphy is stepping down as Interbrand’s chairman. His withdrawal coincides with the unconfirmed departure of European chairman Paul Stobart.

Deputy chairman Tom Blackett refuses to comment on Stobart’s rumoured move to a company outside the design industry.

Blackett claims Murphy will still work for Interbrand as “a consultant”. Murphy says he is relinquishing the chairmanship to concentrate on other business interests, including his fledgling microbrewery, pubs and hotels.

Blackett declines to say if he is bidding for the chairmanship: “Decisions are yet to be made.”

Murphy comments: “It will be an internal replacement.” Stobart was unavailable to comment.