'I'm incredibly proud of what we've built together,' Busy Bees boss says on stepping down

The board, led by chair Robert Walker, together with majority shareholder Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan and Temasek, have appointed Peter Gowers as Simon’s successor to lead the group in its next stage of growth.

Peter, former-group chief executive of Europcar and chief executive of Travelodge, will step into the role of Group CEO from July 8. 

He will be in the business from Tuesday May 20 onwards to work with Simon to ensure a smooth transition and get to know the firm, which opened its first nursery in Lichfield in 1984.

Simon’s career with Busy Bees began in 2000. Working closely with the founding families of Busy Bees, he has played a pivotal role in transforming a small network of nurseries into a global force in childcare, now spanning more than 10 countries and supporting thousands of children, families and educators around the world. His passion for early education, commitment to quality and belief in the power of nurturing care have been the driving forces behind the company’s accelerated growth and impact.

Simon Irons said: “I joined Busy Bees in 2000 with the initial ambition, shared with founders John Woodward and Marg Randles, to become the UK’s leading early years educator. Throughout my time we’ve grown the business by putting children at the heart of everything and taking Busy Bees into market leadership in multiple countries.

"I'm incredibly proud of what we've built together, and I’m particularly proud of the strong team of professional educators and management that have been assembled under my leadership. I leave knowing the organisation is in capable hands.”

Marg Randles, co-founder of Busy Bees, added: “Simon’s unwavering dedication and visionary leadership have transformed Busy Bees into the global childcare community it is today. Together we've nurtured not only children but also a shared dream—one grounded in the founding principles of care, respect, and opportunity. For over 25 years, Simon has been a cornerstone of the business, and I am deeply grateful for the legacy we've built together."

Peter Gowers was chosen for his three decades of strong commercial leadership and experience of scaling businesses across UK and international markets and as someone who will act as a careful custodian of the Busy Bees brand. He is a seasoned international chief executive with a customer service background, leading teams in the Americas, Europe and Asia-Pacific. He served previously as group chief executive of Europcar, chief executive of Travelodge and as the head of strategy, chief marketing officer and chief executive for Asia-Pacific of IHG plc, the owner of InterContinental Hotels and Holiday Inn, as well as CEO of European property and services business Safestore.

He said: “I’m honoured and excited to take on this role. Simon’s leadership has shaped Busy Bees into what it is today – a trusted, forward-thinking childcare provider focused on giving every child the best start in life. I’m looking forward to continuing that journey, staying true to our values while also embracing innovation and opportunity.”

Busy Bees has also announced the appointment of Rob Roger as chair of the Busy Bees Board, taking over from Robert Walker effective from October 1 2025. Robert has served as chair for 11 years and will continue on the board to ensure continuity across the business.

Rob Roger joined Busy Bees as deputy chair on March 31. He brings 40 years’ experience in executive and non-executive roles across a range of industries including as CEO of Spire Healthcare and of iQ Student Accommodation, and chair of Veonet, Allison Homes, Everlight and Orbis Education and Care.

Robert Walker, chair of the Busy Bees Board, said: “It has been a great pleasure working with Simon these past 11 years to grow Busy Bees into one of the world’s leading early years education providers. I am confident that Peter and Rob are the right team to lead Busy Bees on the next chapter of its development.”