James Timpson, chief executive of key cutting and shoe repair company Timpson, has stepped down from his role as director of the business following his appointment as minister for prisons and probation.

In an open letter to staff his father John Timpson, who is chairman of the business, said he will not be involved while he carries out the “important job.”

As a result, John Timpson said he would spend more time with the business. Paresh Majithia has been appointed acting group managing director and will take on James Timpson’s responsibilities.

John Timpson said that the business would continue to thrive due to the leadership team currently in place. He added the business is trading at “record levels”, which he said has driven the opening of new stores and a factory in London.

“My priority is the continual development of our family business, and ensure it is run well while James carries out the role that the prime minister has asked him to do,” John Timpson said. “I am delighted James has been given this opportunity, and am confident that, when he returns as chief executive, the company will be in an even stronger place than it is now.”

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