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Smiths Group

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FY2022 Annual Report · Smiths Group
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PIONEERS  
OF PROGRESS

IMPROVING OUR  
WORLD THROUGH 
SMARTER ENGINEERING

Annual Report  
FY2022

OUR  
PURPOSE

We are pioneers of progress – improving our 
world through smarter engineering.

Smarter engineering means helping to solve 
the toughest problems, for our customers, our 
communities and ourselves. We help to create a 
safer, more efficient and better-connected world.

We are united by our Purpose. It is what we do, 
how we think, and how we will continue to use 
our passion for technology and engineering to 
be successful in the future. 

P24 READ MORE

Sustainability at Smiths

SEE MORE
www.smiths.com

CONTENTS

01 Overview

Our Purpose 

FY2022 highlights 

Our priorities and targets 

Our key global markets 

Our divisions 

02 Strategic Report

Chairman’s statement 

Chief Executive Officer’s review 

- Our business model 

- Our strategy 

- Review of the year 

Chief Financial Officer’s review 

- Divisional review 

Key performance indicators 

Sustainability at Smiths 

Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures 

Stakeholders and Section 172 Statement 

Non-Financial Information Statement 

Risk management 

- Principal risks and uncertainties 

Going Concern and Viability Statement 

IFC-4

03 Governance

56-92

IFC

Chairman’s introduction 

1

2

2

3

Board biographies 

Nomination & Governance Committee Report 

Audit & Risk Committee Report 

Remuneration & People Committee Report 

Science, Sustainability & Excellence Committee Report 

5-55

Directors’ Report 

Statement of Directors’ responsibilities 

56

58

66

69

75

89

90

92

04 Financial statements

93-187

Independent auditor’s report 

Consolidated primary statements 

Accounting policies 

Notes to the accounts 

Unaudited Group financial record 2018-2022 

Unaudited US dollar primary statements 

Smiths Group plc Company accounts 

Subsidiary undertakings 

Shareholder information 

93

103

108

116

164

165

171

180

187

5

9

9

10

11

15

17

21

24

35

41

45

46

47

54

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSFY2022 HIGHLIGHTS

A YEAR OF ACCELERATING 
GROWTH AND STRONGER 
EXECUTION

Accelerating growth – +3.8% organic revenue growth, fastest in nearly a decade 
–  Organic revenue growth ahead of expectations; +3.8%1 (H1: +3.4%; H2: +4.1%);  

five consecutive quarters of growth; reported growth of +6.7%

–  Headline2 EPS growth +17.8%
–  High demand across most end markets with strong order growth of +11%3
–  £51m of revenue from new products launched in FY2022; R&D investment increased +14%
–  Targeted M&A contributed +1.8% of reported growth
–  Increasing returns to shareholders with proposed total dividend of 39.6p, +5%

Stronger execution – Smiths Excellence System fully embedded
–  Resilient operating margin of 16.3% with headline operating profit2 of £417m
–  Price offsetting inflation and mitigating other supply chain impacts 
–  Solid operating cash conversion4 of 80%; investment in working capital and 

capex to support growth and mitigate supply chain impacts

–  More focused portfolio following completion of Smiths Medical sale and 

rapid return of proceeds with share buyback programme now 76% complete

–  Smiths Excellence System now fully embedded, with high-impact projects 

underway and targeted savings actions to drive enhanced efficiency

Inspiring and empowering our people – an energised  
and focused team
–  A refreshed leadership team with new senior appointments throughout the year
–  Introduced Smiths Leadership Behaviours to build on our strong culture
–  Driving an even more dynamic and inclusive culture with greater focus on diversity
–  Continuing to translate our commitment to ESG leadership into action

Strong balance sheet – well positioned to execute our growth strategy
–  £380m reduction in gross debt; leverage of 0.3x net debt/headline EBITDA4
–  Final buy-in of the TI Group Pension Scheme, delivering certainty for scheme 

members and shareholders

1

GROSS VITALITY

Percentage of revenue 
from new products FY2022

31%

FY2021: 25% 

GREENHOUSE GAS REDUCTION

GHG reduction normalised 
to revenue FY2022

(7.2)% 

SAFETY

Recordable Incident Rate 
FY2022

0.54

FY2021: 0.47

DIVERSITY

% of senior leadership positions 
taken by females FY2022

24%

FY2021: 23% 

DIRECT ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTION

Taxes paid + employee costs 
+ supplier costs FY2022

HEADLINE2
Revenue

Operating profit

Operating profit margin4

Basic earnings per share (EPS)

Operating cash conversion4

ROCE4,5

STATUTORY
Revenue

Operating profit

Profit for the year (after tax)

Basic EPS

Dividend per share

FY2022

£2,566m

£417m

16.3%

69.8p

80%

14.2%

FY2022

£2,566m

£117m

£1,035m

267.1p

39.6p

FY2021

£2,406m

£372m

15.5%

59.3p

129%

13.9%

FY2021

£2,406m

£326m

£285m

71.7p

37.7p

Reported

+6.7%

+12.0%

+80bps

+17.8%

(49)%

+30bps

Reported

+6.7%

(64.1)%

263.2%

272.5%

+5.0%

Organic1

+3.8%

+1.7%

(30)bps

£2.33bn

FY2021: £1.95bn

P 24

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Sustainability at Smiths

SEE MORE  
www.smiths.com

The following definitions are applied throughout this Report:
1   Organic is headline adjusted to exclude the effects of foreign exchange, acquisitions and restructuring.  
2   Headline: In addition to statutory reporting, the Group reports on a headline basis. Definitions of headline metrics, 
and information about the adjustments to statutory measures, are provided in note 3 to the financial statements. 
Headline performance is on a Smiths Group basis, excluding the results of Smiths Medical. 

3  Order growth excludes the effects of foreign exchange and includes John Crane, Smiths Detection and Smiths Interconnect.
4  Alternative Performance Measures (APMs) and key performance indicators are defined in note 29 to the financial statements.
5  Excludes the impact of restructuring charges and spend.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS2

OUR PRIORITIES 
AND TARGETS

OUR KEY GLOBAL 
MARKETS

General Industrial
Customers put their trust in our products and 
services to support a wide range of general 
industrial applications in sectors including 
petrochemical, mining, pulp & paper, water 
treatment, semiconductor testing, heating 
elements, automotive and rail transportation

Safety & Security
Our threat detection equipment helps keep people 
and assets safe. Demand in the security market 
is driven by persistent and evolving terror threats, 
changing security regulations, and increased 
global air travel and trade

Energy
John Crane’s mechanical seals and systems 
support energy operations worldwide including 
downstream and midstream oil & gas and power 
generation. Growth is driven by increases in global 
demand for energy, productivity, and enhanced 
environmental and safety requirements

Aerospace
Satellite launches and emerging activities like 
deep space exploration are driving demand 
for high-reliability solutions in the space 
market. Growth in aerospace is coming from 
the development of new fuel-efficient aircraft 
and increasing passenger and freight traffic

Smiths is intrinsically strong with world-
class engineering, leading positions in critical 
markets, and distinctive global capabilities, all 
underpinned by a strong financial framework. 

Our priority is to build on our strengths to unlock 
value by moving with greater pace and urgency 
to deliver performance in line with our significant 
potential. 

Our focused plan, which is captured in the 
Smiths Value Engine, has three top priorities:

Accelerating growth  

Strengthening execution 

Doing even more to inspire 
and empower our people

We have set the following medium-term targets:

Organic revenue growth
EPS growth

ROCE

Operating profit margin

Operating cash conversion

4-6% (+M&A)
7-10% (+M&A)
15-17%

18-20%

100%+

These targets are underpinned by Smiths operational KPIs 
and environmental targets, including a commitment to Net 
Zero for Scope 1 & 2 emissions by 2040 and Net Zero for 
Scope 3 emissions by 2050.

P 9

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Our business model  
and Our strategy

P 24

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Sustainability at Smiths

P 21

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KPIs

REVENUE BY GLOBAL MARKET General Industrial42% Safety & Security31% Energy21% Aerospace6%REVENUE BY DESTINATION Americas55% Europe19% Asia Pacific16% Rest of the World10%01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS3

OUR DIVISIONS

Our four divisions operate in more than 50 countries.  
Together, our divisions and Group employ more than 14,700 people.

John Crane
Mission-critical flow control 
solutions for increased 
efficiency, reliability, and 
environmental sustainability.

% OF REVENUE

35%

69% of John Crane revenue  
is from aftermarket sales

READ MORE  
www.smiths.com

P 17

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CFO review

Smiths Detection
Detection and screening 
technologies for safety, security 
and freedom of movement.

% OF REVENUE

26%

54% of Smiths Detection revenue  
is from aftermarket sales

READ MORE  
www.smiths.com

P 18

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CFO review

John Crane is a global leader in the design, 
manufacture, installation and support of rotating 
equipment solutions that drive efficiency, safety, 
and environmental sustainability in large-scale 
industrial processes. 

Customers
–  Energy – down- and mid-stream activities (e.g. pipelines and 
refineries) of energy multinationals and power generation
–  Other process industries – a significant presence in chemical, 

life sciences, mining, water treatment, and pulp & paper

–  Aftermarket – increasing demand for full lifecycle 

asset management 

–  Ideally positioned to help customers meet their 
decarbonisation and energy transition objectives

Competitive strengths
–  Strong and differentiated proprietary technologies and 

expertise across industries

–  Largest installed base in the Energy and Industrials markets
–  Innovation focused, growing digital capability
–  Customer intimacy and strategic alignment with end users 
through a network of ~200 service and support centres, and 
unique capabilities of field service engineers

Growth drivers
–  Near-term global demand for stable energy supply
–  Secular growth in energy and primary resource demand, 

especially in emerging markets

–  Increasing demand for enhanced efficiency
–  Energy transition – environmental safeguarding and cleaner 
processes. Requirement to reduce emissions, with particular 
emphasis on methane. Growth of a more diversified and 
cleaner low-carbon energy eco-system, including hydrogen 
and renewables, which drive more demanding needs in 
compression, pumping and filtration

–  Long-term customer partnerships and outsourcing

Competitors
Competitors include Flowserve, EagleBurgmann and AES

Smiths Detection is a global leader in  
threat detection and screening technologies  
that protect people and assets.

Customers
–  Aviation – airports and governments. Regulators are also 

highly involved and shape market development

–  Other Security Systems – a significant presence in high-
energy cargo inspection systems (ports and borders), 
integrated screening systems for a broad range of urban 
situations (court houses, prisons, offices, shopping malls, rail 
stations, etc.), long-standing partnerships with governments 
for detection of chemicals and explosives in national defence

Competitive strengths
–  Global reach and market-leading brand
–  Differentiated proprietary technologies leveraged across a 

broad range of markets

–  Significant research and development and digital capabilities
–  Focus on minimising product energy use
–  Customer intimacy and loyalty through equipment cycle and 

aftermarket offer

–  Operating in regulated market segments that require 

product certification

–  Network of ~100 locations

Growth drivers
–  Persistent and evolving threats to national security, public 

safety and critical infrastructure

–  Changing aviation security regulations and customer 

requirements across our industries
–  Growing populations and urbanisation
–  Growth of global transportation infrastructure 
–  Global growth of international trade and e-commerce 
–  Need for integrated digital solutions
–  Staffing constraints are driving demand for digital image 
analysis software such as automated threat recognition

–  Equipment replacement cycle, typically 8–10 years

Competitors
Competitors include Rapiscan, Leidos, Nuctech, Flir, Chemring 
and Bruker

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS4

Flex-Tek
Safe and efficient  
movement of fluids  
and gases.

% OF REVENUE

25%

READ MORE  
www.smiths.com

P 19

READ MORE  
CFO review

Smiths Interconnect
Advancing the world  
through cutting-edge  
connectivity.

% OF REVENUE

14%

READ MORE  
www.smiths.com

P 20

READ MORE  
CFO review

Flex-Tek is a global provider of high-performance 
engineered solutions that support the safe and 
efficient movement of fluids and gases in a range of 
industry sectors.

Customers
–  Construction – heating, ventilation and air-conditioning 
(HVAC) customers and builders (full range of heating 
elements, gas piping, flexible and metal ducting)

–  Aerospace – aircraft manufacturers and their tier-one 

suppliers (a full range of rigid and flexible, high-and low-
pressure tubing and ducting for fluid conveyance)

–  Industrial – Electrical Process Heating (highly engineered, 
medium-high voltage) and specialist end-use applications 
such as medical hoses

Competitive strengths
–  Leading capability in design, manufacture and 

cost engineering

–  High-performance differentiated products
–  Innovation focused
–  Strong customer relationships and brand reputation

Growth drivers
–  Through-cycle growth of the US housing construction market
–  Expanding international market for construction products
–  Long-term increase in commercial and military 

aircraft production

–  Customer focus on efficient performance and 

environmental safeguarding

–  Industrial heat solutions
–  Growth in use of medical devices

Competitors
Competitors include Parker-Hannifin, Eaton, OmegaFlex, 
Warren, Watlow and Southwark Metal

Smiths Interconnect is a preferred supplier of 
advanced electronic components, sub-systems, 
optical and radio frequency products for customers 
requiring reliable, high-speed and secure 
connectivity, often in harsh environments. 

Customers
–  Semiconductor test – test socket and probe card solutions 
for higher-performing applications (graphics processing, 
artificial intelligence and data communication) for a broad 
range of chip manufacturers

–  Connectors – high-reliability electrical interconnect 

solutions for specialised applications across a broad range of 
healthcare, industrial, transport and aerospace customers 

–  Fibre-optics and radio frequency (RF) components – 
broad range of devices, transceivers for demanding 
high-reliability environments – especially with space and 
aerospace customers

–  Smiths Interconnect Inc. – antenna systems, multi-function 
RF systems, as well as time and frequency solutions for 
aerospace and defence customers

Competitive strengths
–  Broad portfolio of cutting-edge technologies and products
–  Strong research and engineering capabilities
–  Customer intimacy and product customisation
–  Global reach and support

Growth drivers
–  Increased demand for faster data transmission, greater 
bandwidth and faster processing power in aerospace, 
defence and communications

–  Growth of connectivity, as the world becomes more 

connected, driven by trends including the Internet of Things, 
Big Data, Internet of Space, Industry 4.0
–  Development of healthcare technology

Competitors
Competitors include Amphenol, TE Connectivity, Molex, 
Cobham, Glenair, Honeywell, Anaren, Leeno and Winway

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
CHAIRMAN’S 
STATEMENT

Over the years, I have tried to make my 
Chairman’s letters interesting and relevant to 
topical events and describe how we address them 
at Smiths. Last year, I described why we believed 
that, by the summer of 2022, the coronavirus’s 
mutations would become less virulent, and 
COVID-19’s impact on society and business 
would gradually decline and disappear into the 
background of other infectious diseases we live 
with in perpetuity, like colds or influenza.

The big issues that have unfolded for Smiths and other companies 
in 2022 are: 

–  Supply chain shortages; 
–  Inflation; and 
–   The effects of the Ukraine war, particularly its impacts 

on food and energy supply. 

This set of topics is incredibly complex and connects the fiscal and 
monetary policies of the world’s governments, economic growth 
expectations, energy shortages, social dislocation, food shortages, 
personal safety, labour shortages, global migration patterns and 
societal pressures. This is obviously not something I can cover in 
a short letter. So, I will try to deal with just one or two confusing 
pieces of this puzzle. So, supply chain shortages and related 
inflation will be my focus for this year’s letter.

In any commodity situation, only three factors impact a 
commodity’s price at any time: supply, demand, and inventory. 
Price fluctuations occur continuously in globally traded 
commodities like copper and aluminium, and on any day there 
can be significant differences in spot and future pricing, depending 
on expected future demand. Oil prices are especially sensitive 
to an imbalance in supply and demand because most contracts 
never result in the actual delivery of oil, only in speculation. 
But pricing variations like these appear everywhere, even in  
non-commodity items. 

5

The war in Ukraine has caused energy and food inflation to 
worsen both locally and globally. But in the longer term, energy 
is a zero-sum game. Suppose Russia sells more energy to 
countries such as India or China. In that case, assuming they sell 
a full allotment, those volume demands are missing from the 
world marketplace and, given time, that volume will be available 
to others. 

There will be some temporary spikes in oil prices, but they should 
not last because there is a well-developed shipping network for 
oil supply worldwide and rebalancing regional supply and demand 
is possible. There may be incremental costs due to the difference 
between oil shipped via ocean cargo versus that transported by 
pipeline, but it is unlikely to last. Natural gas is more problematic 
because pipeline infrastructure from Russia is more well-
developed than LNG shipped by sea. Syngas can also be made 
from coal and, along with fracking, these might offer a solution 
if the gas supply does not resume from Russia. Nuclear power 
generation is also possible in countries where nuclear units have 
been mothballed for political or environmental reasons. But these 
issues are as connected to political decisions as to economic or 
technological ones.

During any economic or secular disturbance, executives face 
two primary challenges. The first is to predict how long a 
disturbance will last, and the second is to predict how deep it 
will get. We saw this in the 9/11 attacks, the ‘08-’09 debt crisis, 
and again in the COVID-19 pandemic, plus recent supply chain 
shortages and inflation. Without a sensible forecasting model, 
we don’t know whether we are falling into a 1m deep ditch or off a 
1,000m cliff.

When we speak about a ‘supply chain’, we refer to the flow of 
inbound materials to a company and its conversion into finished 
goods via a manufacturing process. There is a complementary 
outbound flow from the company through various distribution 
channels until the product eventually reaches the final customer. 
Every manufacturing company has these building blocks, the 
inbound flow of raw material, conversion via a manufacturing 
or assembly process, and then outbound delivery of finished 
goods to their customers. 

Understanding supply chains is a problem in dynamics, not 
in statics. Just like the vibrating string of a violin, when it is 
figuratively ‘plucked’, everything in the supply chain is moving up, 
down, backwards, and forwards. Perhaps the closest analogy 
to supply chain dynamics is the pulsating noise we hear when 
our plumbing at home experiences a ‘water hammer’. This is 
caused by pressure waves oscillating backwards and forward 
between discontinuities in the plumbing system and is analogous 
to the waves of demand that ripple up and down dynamically in 
a supply chain. 

On the outbound side of this process, companies sell their 
products to customers through various forms of distribution. 
Some go directly to customers to be built into product platforms 
such as vehicles or electronics, some through distribution 
channels that hold buffer inventory to smooth out supply and 
demand imbalances, and others sell their products direct 
to consumers online. The dynamics are different in detail, but 
they all suffer varying degrees of transient problems. 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS6

What happens to orders when  
end-market demand falls?
Let’s perform a thought experiment on our supply chain. 
Let’s consider a make-to-stock original equipment manufacturer 
(OEM) and imagine there are three or four inventory storage 
locations in the outbound supply chain. Let’s imagine a reduction 
in end-market demand by 100bps and examine what happens in 
our supply chain. 

The management at the inventory storage location closest 
to the end-market sees demand fall by 100 basis points. 
Local management knows they must cut orders; otherwise, 
they will have too much inventory. So, to be conservative, they 
cut their orders by 200 basis points, say. The management at 
the next location further up the supply chain sees their demand 
fall by 200 basis points, and they also worry they will have too 
much inventory, so they cut orders by 300 basis points, and so on. 
The order reduction numbers chosen here are just illustrative, 
and the actual numbers will differ depending on a company’s 
risk tolerance, distribution method and the number of inventory 
storage locations. The greater the number of inventory storage 
locations in your supply chain, the more likely there will be an 
overreaction. Even with ‘just-in-time’ pull system ordering, 
it’s natural that management overreacts to some degree in 
controlling inventory. So, the net effect is that there’s always 
an amplification in the supply chain of any fluctuation in end-
market demand. 

Consequently, if you are an OEM in a downturn, you will almost 
always see your demand temporarily fall by multiples of that seen 
in the end-market as the supply chain adjusts to new demand 
conditions. The downstream effect is different for make-to-order 
manufacturers than for make-to-stock. But we must remember 
this is a two-sided problem, both on the inbound supply chain 
and on the outbound one. So, an upstream supply chain’s impact 
can still cause problems, particularly when there is an increase 
in demand. I’ve seen this amplification phenomenon happen at 
every B2B company I have worked at. The same phenomenon also 
happens when, instead, there is an increase in demand, which I 
will explain later.

In one case, an industrial manufacturer I’m familiar with sells 
through extended distribution channels and has an amplification 
of 2.84. So, if their end-market demand falls by 100 basis points, 
they see their orders temporarily fall by 284 basis points. In steel 
distribution, that amplification number is about 400 basis points. 
The amplification factor in seasonal businesses with lower 
inventory turns is about 160 basis points. Consumer electronics 
can be as high as a staggering 2,000 basis points. 

How long do these temporary supply chain 
transients last?
The next question is, how long will this transient reduction in 
demand last? If the supply chain were 100% efficient, it would 
clear the excess inventory in one turn. But we know that supply 
chains are never 100% efficient. When I was making these 
calculations earlier in my career, because I didn’t know the exact 
supply chain efficiency number, like any typical engineer, I chose 
50% as my working hypothesis. Fill rates are a complex function 
of demand and inventory and weren’t always valid in highly 
disturbed situations.

Let’s make the numbers easy in our thought experiment. 
The 50% efficiency number means that a four inventory turn 
company would experience a transient fall in demand lasting for 
six months, in other words, two inventory turns. Although the 
end market has only fallen by 100 basis points, it feels like your 
company is selling into an artificially much worse market than it 
really is. The industrial company I mentioned earlier felt like the 
end-market – and sales – had temporarily fallen by 284 basis 
points, not 100 basis points. But correspondingly, when there’s 
an increase in demand, it feels like your company is selling into 
an artificially much better market than it is. That overshoot in 
demand is only a temporary illusion, and we’ll deal with that 
case shortly.

Order demand falls until supply and demand come into 
equilibrium. Meanwhile, the transient reduction in orders has 
removed the excess inventory from the supply chain and, in 
my example, demand returns to a new quiescent value, albeit 
now 100 basis points smaller. 

So, in this simple case of falling demand, the sales challenge 
of this hypothetical make-to-stock company is made worse 
by ordering undershoot. This has important financial impacts 
because it artificially reduces a company’s reported growth. 
In public companies, we report to the market periodically and, 
if a temporary undershoot in demand – one not reflective of the 
real end-market conditions – lasts six months, it can seriously 
affect the projected growth rate in the full-year results, depending 
on which quarter of the fiscal year the disturbance happens. 

What happens when there is an  
increase in demand?
Now let’s consider the opposite case, one where there is 
a sudden increase in demand, which we’ve seen recently, 
particularly in electronics. The simple answer to why this 
is happening is an imbalance in supply and demand. But I 
will show now that the problem is again mostly artificial and 
temporary, and so are the associated inflationary tendencies 
as people over-order to fill an illusionary high demand. 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS7

The effects of container shortages
This artificial and synchronised surge in demand has resulted 
in a shortage of shipping containers on some routes worldwide. 
Instead of the historical $2,000 for a container transit from China 
to Europe or the United States, container costs peaked at $23,000 
in 2021. Today it’s around $13,000. China’s zero-COVID policy 
caused holdups and delays in the major East Coast China ports 
and factories, with similar inefficiencies in other ports in the US 
and Europe. So, in part, container pricing is a proxy for supply 
chain shortages and inflation, making the artificial demand 
problem even worse. 

Synchronised demand
Clearly, the world economy has not suddenly grown by 15% or 
20%, so why have companies experienced this sudden increase 
in demand, particularly for electronics? The cause lies squarely 
in the synchronised economic ‘start up’ after the COVID-19 
pandemic, plus the transient artificial demand described earlier. 
Although we have been using videoconferencing tools for many 
years, COVID-19 forced unpractised staff into the user population 
and accelerated acceptance of this as a way of working – and a 
substitute for some face-to-face meetings at the office. That, in 
part, drove part of the high demand for electronics. Likely, we will 
not fully return to pre-COVID-19 ways of working ever again. 

But there is an additional factor at work here; synchronisation. 
Although the world’s major connected economies have similar 
periodicity in their economic cycles, they are not normally all in 
phase. In the same way that demand fell precipitously in late 2008, 
it did so because of the synchronised collapse in all debt markets. 
Similarly, here we have a synchronised increase in demand 
in most markets, made worse by an illusory demand curve. 
However, global economies will gradually settle into historical 
phasing patterns, easing some of this synchronisation problem.

So, the ‘08-’09 downturn occurred because of a debt crisis 
happening simultaneously across the world, which produced a 
synchronised economic downturn. Here, we had a similar but 
opposite problem: a synchronised upturn and, to make it worse, 
synchronised artificial excess demand. 

The case of increased demand
When there is a sudden increase in demand, manufacturing 
capacity is limited, so the supply chain cannot fully respond 
unless there is excess idle capacity. Normally, manufacturers 
load factories to somewhere between 85% and 90% capacity 
for fixed cost absorption reasons. So now the efficiency of our 
supply chain is, de facto, only about 10%. So even if we can 
increase capacity temporarily, say from 85% to 95% or even 
100%, unless we add new capacity, the time for supply and 
demand to return to equilibrium is extended. Some companies 
may have extra shifts available, but then they might not have 
trained workers to staff them, and with labour shortages 
driven by this excess demand, automation is often the answer, 
but that is a long-term solution.

In my earlier case of demand reduction, I used 50% as the 
efficiency number for the supply chain. But now, because of 
manufacturing capacity limits, that efficiency is effectively 
only 10%, so the recovery time for equilibrium to be reached is 
nominally five times as long as it did with 50%. So, a company 
that once experienced a six-month recovery on falling demand 
could now experience a 2.5 year transient before complete 
recovery. This is an extreme case; naturally, companies take 
every possible corrective action to reduce this timing. But this 
problem partly explains why we see extended recoveries 
and shortages in our supply chains. 

In practice, the supply chain may take 18 months to recover 
as we engage in countermeasures. Meantime, a massive 
amount of new fixed capacity is being added to the supply 
chain, especially in the semiconductor area, which will also 
help gradually reduce these disturbance times and inflation 
along with it.

Companies must control the  
temptation to over-order
In this increased demand case, our supply chain manager’s 
temptation is to over-order out of fear of experiencing component 
shortages. After all, you can’t ship a car with even one missing 
door handle. That new demand temporarily increases a company’s 
growth, but it can have serious financial consequences, 
particularly on our inventory’s pricing. We can end up with 
long-dated orders at much higher-than-normal pricing. This is a 
problem queuing for an unhappy ending.

There is typically one overshoot, and one undershoot in 
any dynamic system like the one I describe here. For the 
mathematically inclined, when simplified, the dominant mode 
makes the dynamic response look like a second-order system. 
The precise effect of these temporary increases in demand 
depends very much on the company’s distribution method.

The inevitable outcome is that companies can end up with too 
much inventory, possibly at higher prices, producing variances 
against standard manufacturing costs. In an extreme case, 
companies may face expensive excess and obsolete (E&O) 
inventory write-offs when the inevitable demand falls later in the 
transient cycle, with its own overreaction tendancies. 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS8

Inflation
Some economists argue that inflation has been caused by 
excessive stimulus packages that crashed headlong into supply 
chain shortages. However, they are two sides of the same coin. 
But the real problem is much more complex, and the solutions 
are possibly simpler. Inflation has been made worse by artificial 
synchronised demand that created shortages, combined with 
high-cost slow-moving containers and the war in Ukraine, which 
has driven up food and energy prices. Additionally, zero-COVID-19 
policies in China have plugged up or slowed supply chains and 
attendant labour shortages were caused by all the above. I have 
described here why we are experiencing some parts of these 
supply chain difficulties and why they have lasted so long. 

It’s important to remember the maxim that the solution to 
high prices is high prices. Similarly, the solution to low prices 
is low prices. Companies redesign their products, re-source 
suppliers and use lower-cost substitutes for expensive materials, 
which is part of the companies’ mechanism to control inflation. 
The size of the US economy is approximately $21 trillion, and the 
US uses approximately 6.9 billion barrels of oil a year. So each $10 
increase in the price of a barrel of oil reduces spending power 
in the US economy by about 30 basis points. A $60 increase in the 
price of a barrel of oil, which we saw at its peak, if maintained, 
reduces spending power in the US economy by 180 basis points. 
Similarly, increasing interest rates simultaneously increases 
inflation and later reduces it by cooling demand.

Those companies suffering the greatest near-term challenge are 
those in process industries that use a lot of energy. Smiths does 
not have high energy-intensive manufacturing processes. 

So how does all of this end?
The Chinese Communist Party Congress will take place in 
October. It may be when China declares victory over COVID and 
eliminates its zero-COVID policy. That will gradually free up 
plugged ports, ease supply chain shortages, reduce container 
costs, and ease some pressure on component supply from China. 
Supply chain transients will end naturally with time, though not 
without some pain, and artificial demand will reduce. A reduction 
in economic stimulus will also help, though I have reservations 
that a rapid increase in interest rates may work against 
policymakers and create recessions in some economies across 
the Western world. Together, these factors will reduce labour 
shortages and ease the pressure on pricing and inflation. 

Lastly, problems that Western economies have suffered over 
the past two years will almost certainly create a swathe of 
manufacturing repatriation initiatives. That is likely to reduce 
economic growth in China and other parts of the Asian economy. 
But it will also create new jobs and investments in Western 
economies and drive efficiency initiatives and automation 
investments. My grandmother would have said, “it’s an ill wind that 
blows nobody any good”.

I hope this letter has helped readers, in some small way, to 
understand the complexities and effects of this very unusual time.

Sir George W. Buckley
CHAIRMAN

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS9

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S REVIEW

OUR BUSINESS MODEL 

Our compelling business model leverages our world-class engineering, leading positions 
in critical markets, and global capabilities to help customers solve their toughest 
problems. The Smiths Value Engine is supported by a robust financial framework 
characterised by recurring revenues, high margins, and strong cash generation.

SMITHS VALUE ENGINE

OUR PURPOSE

OUR STRENGTHS

OUR PRIORITIES

PIONEERS OF  
PROGRESS

Improving our world 
through smarter 
engineering

World-Class  
Engineering

Leading Positions  
in Critical Markets

Global 
Capabilities

Robust Financial  
Framework

Growth

Execution

People

OUR CULTURE

OUR STAKEHOLDERS

Our culture inspires and empowers our 
people. We live our Values of integrity, 
respect, customer focus, ownership, and 
passion every day, in each action and 
decision that we take. A strong culture 
grounded in Values is what has enabled 
Smiths to prosper for more than  
170 years.

Our Leadership Behaviours provide a 
unified description of what leadership 
means at Smiths and a shared 
commitment to how we act in service of 
our stakeholders. Smiths Leadership 
Behaviours align to our three core 
priorities of growth, execution and people.

Growth
–  Innovates for impact
–  Sets vision to inspire

Execution
–  Takes accountability and ownership
–  Delivers results at pace

People
–  Lives Smiths Values
–  Develops self and others
–  Leads inclusively and empowers

People
Our capable, dedicated and passionate 
colleagues are our greatest asset. We aim to 
attract and retain the very best by creating an 
environment for colleagues based on respect, 
personal growth, recognition and development 
of talent, and a sense of belonging 
and purpose.

Customers
Strong and enduring customer relationships 
will sustain Smiths into the future. 
Meeting customer needs and exceeding 
their expectations, not just with products, 
quality and service, but in the way we conduct 
business and pay attention to the things 
that matter to them – for example, ethics 
and environmental performance – is a 
fundamental part of our business model and 
our Values.

Suppliers
Developing mutually beneficial relationships 
with our suppliers and building resilience, 
quality and efficiency across our supply chain 
is a fundamental contributor to our customer 
offering and the long-term competitiveness 
of Smiths. 

Communities and society
We aim to improve our world by contributing 
positively to our communities and society 
in general. Smiths products and services 
support critical global industries where we 
are pioneering progress in safety, efficiency 
and environmental performance. We play a 
beneficial role in local economies through job 
creation and skills development, procurement 
and generating tax revenues, operating safely, 
environmentally responsibly and ethically, and 
engaging directly.

Regulators and governments
We build relationships with governments, 
policymakers and regulators across the 
world. We do this so that we can operate 
effectively, to ensure our interests and those 
of the industries in which we operate are 
represented in decision-making, and in order 
to contribute our expertise on emerging 
national, regional and global needs. 

Investors
We are committed to openness and 
transparency with all capital providers and the 
effective management of risk while we unlock 
value and returns for our investors.

P  28

READ MORE  
Our culture

P 41

READ MORE  
Engaging with our stakeholders

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS10

OUR STRATEGY

We are committed to performing to our potential – growing faster to unlock enhanced 
value creation for the Group. We actively manage our portfolio of businesses and seek to 
optimise their performance through organic investment and disciplined use of capital for 
mergers and acquisitions. In FY2022 we made good progress in advancing our strategy.

MEGATRENDS

OUR STRATEGIC PRIORITIES

The strategy for each division is tailored to its 
individual circumstances and takes account of 
trends in overall demand, specific customer 
needs, relative competitor performance, 
and underlying business models. In addition, 
we track the evolution of key Group-wide 
secular themes and trends and their impact 
on our business.

Our Purpose and commitment to sustainability 
leadership are reflected in our intent to prioritise 
ESG performance at Smiths. As a result, whilst 
each of these themes is important, we place 
additional emphasis on our response to those 
megatrends which relate to the energy transition 
agenda and the overall reduction of waste and 
energy use. This will allow us to leverage our 
unique capabilities to enable our customers to 
meet their sustainability goals while we deliver 
on our own commitments.

General Industrial
–  Efficient, 

cleaner processes
–  Waste reduction,  
re-use/recycle
–  Safe operations

Safety & Security
–  Safe travel
–  Secure trade
–  Safe people

Energy
–  Environmental  

urgency

–  Energy efficiency
–  Lower emissions

–  Equipment reliability
–  Asset life 

maximisation
–  Lightweight  
materials

–  Secure places
–  Smart cities

–  Energy  

transformation

–  Air quality 

Aerospace
–  Faster/seamless 

connectivity

–  Satellite applications

–  Personalised  
integrated 
mobility solutions

FY2022 PROGRESS AGAINST TARGETS

–  Taking full advantage of strong demand we currently see across most of 

our markets

Growth

–  Improving new product development and commercialisation
–  Extending our reach by building out priority adjacencies
–  Supplementing organic growth with disciplined M&A
–  Developing high-value green technology solutions for our customers

FY2022 progress 
–  Five consecutive quarters of organic revenue growth
–  Accelerated organic revenue growth towards target range 
–  £51m of revenue from new products launched in FY2022
–  R&D investment increased +14% to 4.2% of sales (+30bps vs FY2021)
–  +1.8% additional growth from targeted M&A

–  Embedding the Smiths Excellence System across the Group
–  Accelerating pace and establishing a more consistent operating rhythm 
–  Continuously improving to deliver value for customers
–  Executing against our environmental commitments

Execution

FY2022 progress 
–  Resilient operating profit margins amidst challenging 

macro environment

–  Price offsetting inflation and mitigating other supply chain impacts
–  SES fully embedded across the Group, with a well-resourced team and 

25 high-impact projects underway
–  New sustainability strategy launched
–  Solid operating cash conversion achieved 

–  Building upon our world-class safety record
–  Accelerating talent development through the Smiths  

Leadership Behaviours

People

–  Creating an ever-more diverse and inclusive environment
–  Living Smiths Values each and every day

FY2022 progress 
–  Refreshed senior leadership team leading a faster pace
–  Introduced Smiths Leadership Behaviours to accelerate 

cultural change

–  More ambitious diversity goals in place
–  >1,000 Lean Six Sigma qualifications through our SES Academy

+M&A

4-6%

+M&A

7-10%

FY2021

FY2022

Organic revenue growth

EPS growth

(2.2)%

3.8%

19.3%

17.8%

18-20%

100%+

Operating profit margin

Operating cash conversion

15.5%

16.3%

129%

80%

15-17%

ROCE

13.9%

14.2%

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS11

FY2023 outlook
–  Expect to deliver 4.0% to 4.5% organic revenue growth 

with moderate margin improvement 

–  Strong order books and leading market positions support 

sustained momentum

–  Cost inflation being actively managed through productivity 

programmes and pricing actions

–  Macroeconomic and geopolitical uncertainty as well as supply 

chain challenges continue

FY2022 business performance
Commentary refers to Smiths Group performance excluding 
Smiths Medical, which was accounted for as ‘discontinued 
operations’ before the sale completed on 6 January 2022. 

Smiths delivered growth ahead of expectations with organic 
revenue up +3.8%. Growth accelerated to +4.1% in the second 
half, which built on the momentum we had achieved in the first 
half of +3.4%. We executed well in a challenging environment with 
positive pricing action covering the impact of elevated input costs, 
and maintained close management of our supply chain to mitigate 
other impacts. 

As we strive to continually inspire and empower our great 
people, we launched our enhanced sustainability strategy and set 
out new Smiths Leadership Behaviours. These Behaviours provide 
a unified description of what leaderships means at Smiths and a 
shared commitment to how we will act as employees.

CHIEF 
EXECUTIVE’S 
REVIEW OF  
THE YEAR

“

We continued to demonstrate strong progress in 
FY2022, executing at pace on our growth strategy. 
We delivered growth ahead of expectations, 
our fastest organic growth in nearly a decade. 
Along with accelerating growth, we further 
strengthened our company through increased 
investments in innovation, commercialisation and 
supply chain. Still more, we returned £661m of 
cash to our shareholders through dividends and 
share repurchases.

All of this gives us confidence for continued 
progress in FY2023. Despite an uncertain macro 
environment, we expect to deliver 4.0-4.5% 
organic revenue growth with moderate margin 
improvement. By focusing on our top priorities of 
growth, execution, and people, we are creating 
value for our customers, colleagues, communities 
and investors. Together, we’re building an ever-
stronger future for Smiths.

Many thanks to my colleagues around the world 
for doing what we do best – improving our world 
through smarter engineering.”

Paul Keel,
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

FY2022 BUSINESS PERFORMANCE

(£m)

Revenue

Headline operating profit

Headline operating profit margin

ORGANIC REVENUE GROWTH (BY BUSINESS) 

John Crane

Smiths Detection

Flex-Tek

Smiths Interconnect

Smiths Group

H1 2022

+5.1%

(7.2)%

+10.0%

+12.9%

+3.4%

H2 2022

+2.5%

(11.3)%

+20.9%

+14.8%

+4.1%

FY2021 
restructuring 
charges

Foreign 
exchange

Acquisitions

Organic 
movement

–

21

26

5

42

11

92

8

+90bps

+0bps

+20bps

(30)bps

FY2021

2,406

372

15.5%

ORGANIC REVENUE GROWTH IN OUR END MARKETS 
% of Smiths 
revenue

H1 2022

H2 2022

FY2022

2,566

417

16.3%

FY2022

General Industrial

Safety & Security

Energy

Aerospace

42%

31%

21%

6%

+5.7%

(3.5)%

+7.5%

+16.5%

+11.4%

(8.9)%

+0.3%

(6.4)%

+3.5%

+16.7%

+14.2%

+15.4%

FY2022

+3.7%

(9.4)%

+16.1%

+13.9%

+3.8%

Smiths Group

100%

+3.4%

+4.1%

+3.8%

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
 
12

Our second lever for faster growth is improved new product 
development and commercialisation. During FY2022, we launched 
21 high-impact new products including Flex-Tek’s Python 
line sets, a flexible, multi-layer pipe used in various heating, 
ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) applications; Smiths 
Detection’s iCMORE automated detection algorithms; and Smiths 
Interconnect’s space qualified connectors. Gross Vitality, which 
measures the contribution of products launched in the last 
five years increased to 31% (FY2021: 25%), demonstrating our 
successful commercialisation of new products. 

As an industrial technology leader, continuing to invest in 
R&D ensures we capitalise on the wealth of opportunities in 
our pipeline, with increasing demand for our sustainability-
related products. During FY2022, we invested £92m in R&D 
(FY2021: £84m), of which £80m (FY2021: £76m) was an income 
statement charge and £12m capitalised (FY2021: £8m). 
Our customers and third parties contributed a further £15m 
(FY2021: £10m). 

To support new product launches, and the strong demand for 
existing solutions, we increased capex +14.5% in FY2022 to 
£(71)m (FY2021: £(62)m). This represents 1.5x depreciation and 
amortisation (FY2021: 1.2x). 

Our third growth lever is building out priority adjacencies. Each of 
our four businesses are executing strategies to expand their 
growth beyond their existing core market positions. Examples in 
FY2022 include the launch of Smiths Interconnect’s medical cable 
assemblies, and John Crane’s multi-purpose filter; an efficient 
water-saving solution for the treatment of process water in pulp & 
paper, mining, power generation plants and refineries. 

Our fourth growth lever is using disciplined M&A to augment 
our organic growth focus. Flex-Tek’s acquisition of Royal Metal 
in February 2021 is an excellent example of this. Acquired for 
$107m (7.6x trailing EBITDA), FY2022 revenue and profit growth 
were +48% and +70%. During H1 2022, the acquisition contributed 
£42m of revenue and £11m of operating profit, adding 1.8% on top 
of organic revenue growth for FY2022. For H2 2022, contribution 
from Royal Metal was included in our organic results. Royal Metal 
brought a complementary HVAC portfolio, distribution synergies, 
and positive pricing. While driving sustained organic growth 
remains our priority, we continue to explore value accretive M&A 
opportunities across the Group. 

In January 2022, we successfully completed the sale of Smiths 
Medical to ICU Medical, Inc. (ICU), several months earlier than 
expected. This was our largest portfolio move in over a decade 
and positions the Group even more strongly to access the growth 
available in our industrial technology core. The sale generated a 
profit on disposal of £1.0bn, with immediate net cash proceeds of 
£1.3bn and further value to come from a potential $0.1bn earnout 
and our stake in ICU, which is recognised as a £0.4bn asset on our 
balance sheet. For more information on the divestment, please 
see note 27 of the financial statements.

Growth

Growing faster is the primary driver of unlocking enhanced value 
creation for the Group. Through the year we delivered growth in 
each quarter and FY organic revenue growth of +3.8%, our best 
performance in nearly a decade.

Growth accelerated in the second half for both Flex-Tek (+20.9%) 
and Smiths Interconnect (+14.8%). John Crane delivered +2.5% 
growth in the second half impacted by cessation of sales into 
Russia and supply chain disruption, which impacted our ability 
to convert strong order intake into revenue. As expected, Smiths 
Detection continued to be affected by the softer Aviation original 
equipment (OE) market through the second half, but good order 
growth underpins our confidence in the medium-term prospects 
for this segment. 

Revenue grew +6.7% on a reported basis, to £2,566m 
(FY2021: £2,406m). This included +£26m of favourable foreign 
exchange translation, and +£42m from the acquisition of 
Royal Metal Products LLC (Royal Metal) in February 2021. 
Since February 2022, Royal Metal results have been accounted for 
as organic growth.

Strong execution to maximise market recovery opportunity is the 
first of the four actionable levers for accelerating growth. 

Our business operates across four major global end markets: 
General Industrial, Safety & Security, Energy, and Aerospace. 
Our strong market positions, coupled with the balanced market 
exposure we have across our businesses, are distinctive long-
term advantages for Smiths.

Smiths organic revenue growth in our largest end market, 
General Industrial, was +11.4% in FY2022, with growth 
accelerating in the second half. This was driven by John Crane’s 
growth in segments like chemical processing, water treatment 
and life sciences, demand for Flex-Tek’s construction products 
and Smiths Interconnect’s semiconductor test solutions which 
remained strong throughout the year. Smiths organic revenue 
in Safety & Security was (6.4)%, reflecting continued contraction 
of the Aviation OE market. This was partially offset by growth 
in Smiths Detection’s other segments as well as growth from 
Smiths Interconnect’s defence-related products. The +3.5% 
growth in the Energy segment reflected strong demand in John 
Crane. As mentioned above, second half growth was impacted 
by cessation of sales into Russia and supply chain disruptions. 
Our fastest growth in FY2022 came in Aerospace +15.4% as 
increasing aircraft builds drove strong demand for Flex-Tek and 
Smiths Interconnect’s aerospace solutions. 

As part of our growth strategy, we have introduced a new 
approach for our business in China. From the start of FY2023, 
the Smiths China leadership team now has lead responsibility for 
our operations in the country (excluding Smiths Interconnect’s 
semiconductor business unit which will continue to report 
globally). To reflect this, Ted Wan, President of Smiths China, has 
joined the Smiths Group Executive Committee. 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS13

Execution

People

Stronger execution is our second key priority.

Inspiring and empowering our people is our third key priority. 

In FY2022, headline operating profit grew +1.7% (+£8m) on an 
organic basis, and +12.0% (+£45m) on a reported basis to £417m 
(FY2021: £372m). 

Headline operating profit benefited from strong profit leverage 
in Flex-Tek and Smiths Interconnect. This was partially offset 
by the impact of supply chain disruption on John Crane and 
Smiths Detection, lower volumes in the Aviation OE segment of 
Smiths Detection, and our continued investment in growth. On a 
reported basis, headline operating profit increased given £21m of 
restructuring costs booked in FY2021, favourable FX translation of 
£5m and H1 2022 contribution from Royal Metal.

Headline operating profit margin was 16.3%, down (30) bps on an 
organic basis and up +80bps on a reported basis.

Headline EPS grew +17.8%, driven by headline operating profit 
growth, a reduction in the effective headline tax rate and the 
benefit from the ongoing share buyback programme. The headline 
tax charge for FY2022 of £104m (FY2021: £96m) represents an 
effective rate of 27.6% (FY2021: 28.9%). 

ROCE increased +30bps to 14.2% ( FY2021: 13.9%). This reflects 
the higher profitability of the Group, more than offsetting the 
temporary increase in working capital. For further detail of the 
calculation, please refer to note 29 to the financial statements.

Smiths has a strong track record of operating cash conversion, 
having averaged 100% over the last five years. This year, we 
delivered solid operating cash conversion of 80% (FY2021: 129%) 
while navigating supply chain disruption and the associated 
investment in working capital. Headline operating cash-flow was 
£332m (FY2021: £510m).

In FY2022, we embedded our Smiths Excellence System across 
the company. SES is a step change in approach and operating 
rhythm; executing with greater pace, urgency and consistency in 
support of our priorities. 

SES is well resourced with six full-time Master Black Belts (MBB) 
and 23 Black Belts (BB) in place and the first high-impact Black 
Belt projects now underway. Both the MBBs and BBs are dedicated 
resources leading continuous improvement projects across the 
organisation. Their current projects are focused on improving 
lead times, order book conversion, increasing capacity and cost 
reduction, which are helping to both navigate the immediate short-
term disruptions and support more efficient margin expansion 
as we grow the top line. SES links our actions to our strategy, 
prioritises for high impact and creates full-time continuous 
improvement career paths. 

We have also identified some targeted savings projects to drive 
enhanced efficiency and agility in responding to our end markets. 
In John Crane, the focus is to simplify the organisation to better 
serve our customers and maximise growth opportunities. 
In Smiths Detection, we are restructuring the operations to be 
more resilient and improve efficiency in response to market 
conditions. The non-headline charge for these savings projects 
is expected to be £35-40m in FY2023, with annualised benefits of 
£25-30m, of which approximately 50% is expected to be delivered 
in FY2023. 

Safety and well-being are always foremost of our priorities. 
We have a strong and robust safety culture and strive for a zero 
harm workplace, with safety considerations integrated into all of 
our activities. Our Recordable Incident Rate for FY2022 was 0.54 
and continued to track below the industry average and in the top 
quartile of industry performance, reflecting the importance of 
safety in everything we do. 

We continue to support our colleagues in the Ukraine/Russia 
region amidst the ongoing conflict. As communicated at the 
interim results, we stopped all sales into Russia following the 
invasion and are in the process of exiting our operations in Russia. 
An associated non-headline charge of £19m is included in the 
accounts, further details can be found in note 3 of the financial 
statements. We made a Group-wide donation to the Red Cross to 
support the vital work they are doing for the people of Ukraine, and 
implemented a donation matching scheme for our colleagues.

During FY2022 a number of senior appointments were made to 
the leadership team including Clare Scherrer as Chief Financial 
Officer, Bernard Cicut as President of John Crane, Vera Kirikova 
as Chief People Officer and John Ostergren as Chief Sustainability 
Officer. All of these individuals bring a wealth of experience which 
will help accelerate our progress in executing our strategy. 

Under this refreshed leadership, as we continue to strengthen 
our culture, we have introduced a set of behaviours: the Smiths 
Leadership Behaviours, to bring our Values to life. These seven 
Behaviours describe how we work with one another and take 
ownership and accountability for our actions. They apply to 
everyone at Smiths – from the shop floor to senior executives. 

We developed the Smiths Leadership Behaviours through a 
robust process of focus groups, which gathered the views of 
colleagues from 21 countries and 72 sites across the organisation. 
These were followed by workshops with our Executive Committee 
to create and refine a set of behaviours that would be relevant and 
compelling for the whole organisation and support future growth.

The Behaviours will become foundational to processes including 
recruitment, development, career progression and reward. 
We believe that they will enable the Smiths culture to be even 
more dynamic and inclusive.

An important step in embedding an inclusive and diverse culture 
is increasing our gender diversity. We are focused on proactively 
increasing the number of women in leadership roles at Smiths. 
We have 45% female representation on the Smiths Board, and 
we welcomed three new female members to our Executive 
Committee in FY2022 (31% female). Women make up 28% of our 
global employee population, but only 24% of our senior leaders 
are female. We are working to change this with a programme of 
activities designed to identify, support and advance the careers of 
women at Smiths. 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
14

Our ESG approach
Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) performance is  
at the very centre of our Purpose, and fundamental to each of  
our priorities. 
During FY2022, we established a Science, Sustainability & 
Excellence Committee of the Board, chaired by Dame Ann 
Dowling, to provide guidance and supervision of our sustainability 
strategy. We put in place the company’s first Chief Sustainability 
Officer who is leading our sustainability strategy and targets 
throughout the business. This strategy (which will be set 
out in full in our inaugural Sustainability at Smiths report in 
October), describes how we are embracing and prioritising ESG 
performance at Smiths to deliver on our Purpose and create 
genuine and significant value for all our stakeholders. To support 
the delivery of our strategy, executive compensation is now linked 
to our sustainability targets, with ESG metrics (GHG reduction and 
energy usage) included in our annual and our long-term incentive 
compensation programmes beginning in FY2023.

Delivering sustainable growth means leveraging our unique 
capabilities to develop and commercialise green technology that 
will help transform industries and provide our customers with 
solutions for their operations, enabling them to meet their own 
environmental targets across climate risk, energy transition 
and other environmental needs. Examples include methane 
abatement; more energy efficient critical safety infrastructure; 
electrical heating solutions; transmission and storage of 
alternative fuels; carbon capture; and next generation electrical 
connectors that will safely and reliably support the digitisation and 
electrification of infrastructure.

Delivering our ESG commitments, which include targets for 
reduction in water, waste and packaging, and our Net Zero GHG 
emissions commitments for Scope 1, 2 and 3, will improve the 
environmental execution of our operations, our products and our 
supply chain. In preparation for setting science-based targets 
aligned to our Net Zero commitments, we made further progress 
understanding and categorising the underlying data. In FY2022, 
normalised GHG emissions reduced by (7.2)%, normalised water 
usage reduced by (4.5)% and normalised non-recyclable waste 
reduced by (11.5)%. These reductions are on top of significant 
progress already made since FY2007, when we first implemented 
environmental targets. 

We have set and communicated FY2024 environmental goals, an 
important step to support the delivery of our commitment to Net 
Zero GHG emissions for Scope 1 & 2 by 2040. We have a clear 
roadmap for how we will achieve this, published on our website. 
It details the path we are taking to achieve Net Zero Scope 1 & 2 
emissions by 2040 and, furthermore, our ambition to achieve Net 
Zero Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions by 2050. 

Our people are a key asset in delivering our ESG commitments. 
We know that great things happen when we protect, respect, 
and support our teams. We nurture our people and develop their 
talents so that they flourish and can help build the Smiths of 
tomorrow. We are supporting our teams to strengthen our local 
communities and we are working every day with our unwavering 
commitment to strong governance and ethical practice.

P 24

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Sustainability at Smiths

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS15

The two main UK pension schemes and the US pension plan 
are well hedged against changes in interest and inflation rates. 
Over 90% of their assets are invested in third-party annuities, 
government bonds, investment grade credit or cash, with no 
remaining equity investments. As at 31 July 2022, over 60% of 
the UK liabilities had been de-risked through the purchase of 
annuities from third-party insurers.

Capital allocation
Net debt at 31 July 2022 was £150m (FY2021: £1,018m), £868m 
stronger as a result of the proceeds received from the sale of 
Smiths Medical in January 2022. Net debt to headline EBITDA has 
improved to 0.3x (FY2021: 1.6x). 

Given our strong balance sheet position and capital allocation 
approach, we initiated a £742m share buyback in November 2021. 
As at 16 September 2022, we had completed 76% of the programme. 
At the current run-rate and share price, we would complete the 
programme in early CY2023, with an anticipated reduction in shares 
to ~346m (a 13% reduction). 

In line with our progressive dividend policy the Board is 
recommending a final dividend of 27.3p, bringing the total dividend 
for the year to 39.6p, a year-on-year increase of +5% (FY2021: 37.7p). 
The final dividend will be paid on 18 November 2022 to shareholders 
on the register at close of business on 21 October 2022. Our dividend 
policy aims to increase dividends in line with growth in earnings 
and cash-flow with the objective of maintaining minimum 
dividend cover of around two times. The policy enables us to retain 
sufficient cash-flow to finance investment in growth and meet our 
financial obligations. In setting the level of dividend payments, 
the Board considers prevailing economic conditions and future 
investment plans.

The Company offers a Dividend Reinvestment Plan (DRIP) enabling 
shareholders to use their cash dividend to buy further shares in the 
Company – see our website for details. To participate in the DRIP, 
shareholders must submit their election notice to be received by 
28 October 2022 (the Election Date). Elections received after the 
Election Date will apply to dividends paid after 18 November 2022. 
Purchases under the DRIP are made on, or as soon as practicable 
after, the dividend payment date and at prevailing market prices. 

We also applied proceeds from the sale of Smiths Medical to reduce 
debt by redeeming early a $400m bond on 17 February 2022 which 
was due to be repaid in October 2022. This resulted in gross debt of 
£1,166m (FY2021: £1,546m) as at 31 July 2022. There are no financial 
covenants associated with the gross debt. As at 31 July 2022 the 
weighted average maturity was 2.5 years, with the next maturity due 
in April 2023. Cash increased to £1,056m (FY2021: £405m). 

An $800m (c.£656m at the period-end exchange rate) revolving 
credit facility (RCF) remains undrawn and matures in November 
2024. The only financial covenant relates to interest cover, under 
which EBITDA must be greater than or equal to 3 times net interest. 
Taking cash and the RCF together, total liquidity was over £1.7bn 
at the end of the period.

CHIEF FINANCIAL 
OFFICER’S 
REVIEW OF  
THE YEAR

“

Smiths simple and effective framework 
translates business strengths into financial 
strengths resulting in strong cash generation 
that in turn fuels reinvestment in organic growth, 
complementary M&A and shareholder returns.”

Clare Scherrer,
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Free cash-flow
In FY2022, free cash-flow generation was £130m (FY2021: £284m) 
or 31% of headline operating profit ( FY2021: 76%), reflecting an 
increased investment in inventory and capital expenditure.

Pensions
Included within free cash-flow was £9m of pension contributions, 
(FY2021: £30m). The significant reduction in pension contributions 
reflects no contributions needed to the TI Group Pension Scheme 
(TIGPS) and £3m to the Smiths Industries Pension Scheme (SIPS), 
given the well-funded position of both schemes. For FY2023, we 
expect total cash contributions to be around £(12)m (including 
a funded US plan, unfunded schemes and post-retirement 
healthcare plans). 

In June 2022, the TIGPS Trustee completed a deal to secure its 
remaining uninsured pension liabilities, by way of a £640 million 
bulk annuity buy-in with Rothesay Life plc. This means that all 
of the Scheme’s liabilities are now insured, with a final buy-out 
of the scheme to be completed as soon as reasonably practical, 
delivering certainty for the Scheme’s 21,000 members and 
removing future risk for Smiths. As a result of the buy-in a £171m 
non-headline charge was recognised in the FY2022 accounts 
and the net accounting pension surplus decreased to £194m 
(FY2021: £413m). 

SIPS is estimated to be in surplus on the Technical Provisions 
funding basis. Given the funding position, no further cash 
contributions are currently being made. The Group and the SIPS 
Trustee continue to work together to progress towards full buy-
out funding.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSStatutory results

Income statement
The £300m difference between headline operating profit of 
£417m and statutory operating profit of £117m is non-headline 
items as defined in note 3 of the financial statements. The largest 
constituents relate to the TIGPS buy-in which resulted in an 
accounting charge of £171m, amortisation of acquired intangible 
assets of £51m, Russia-related impairment and closure 
costs of £19m, past service costs for benefit equalisation and 
improvements of £43m, asbestos litigation in John Crane, Inc, and 
subrogation claims in Titeflex Corporation. Statutory operating 
profit of £117m was £209m lower than last year (FY2021: £326m), 
reflecting higher non-headline charges offsetting the increase in 
headline operating profit.

Statutory finance costs were £(14)m (FY2021: £(86)m), mainly due 
to a £22m foreign exchange gain on an intercompany loan with 
Smiths Medical (FY2021: £(50)m) which was settled on disposal; 
the matching credit in discontinued operations nets out to zero in 
total Group earnings.

Non-headline taxation items of £14m relate to amortisation of 
acquisition-related intangible assets, legacy pension scheme 
arrangements, litigation provisions and non-headline finance 
items. The statutory effective tax rate was 87% (FY2021: 35%), 
driven principally by the non-headline settlement loss from 
the TIGPS buy-in for which there was no associated deferred 
tax. Please refer to notes 3 and 6 of the financial statements for 
further details.

Discontinued operations – Smiths Medical
On 6 January 2022, the Group completed the sale of Smiths 
Medical to ICU Medical, Inc. (ICU) at an enterprise value of $2.7bn 
and an equity value of $2.4bn after adjustments for debt, liabilities 
and working capital.

For the five months that Smiths Medical remained in the Group, it 
delivered headline profit after tax of £49m.

The difference between statutory and headline profit after tax 
is £973m, which includes £1,036m gain on disposal, £(33)m 
of regulatory remediation costs, £(14)m from the impairment 
of investments, £(22)m of foreign exchange losses on the 
intercompany loan with Smiths Group (continuing operations), and 
+£6m of tax credit on these non-headline items. Please refer to 
notes 3 and 27 of the financial statements for further details.

Total Group profit after tax and EPS
Statutory profit after tax for the total Group increased by +263% 
to £1,035m (FY2021: £285m) which included the profit on sale 
of Smiths Medical. Statutory basic EPS was up +273% to 267.1p 
(FY2021: 71.7p). 

Statutory cash-flow
Statutory net cash inflow from operating activities for the total 
Group was £279m (FY2021: £535m). See note 28 to the financial 
statements for a reconciliation of headline operating cash-flow to 
statutory cash-flow. 

16

Foreign exchange
The results of overseas operations are translated into sterling at 
average exchange rates. Net assets are translated at period-end 
rates. The Group is exposed to foreign exchange movements, 
mainly the US Dollar and the Euro. The principal exchange rates, 
expressed in terms of the value of Sterling, are shown in the 
following table:

USD 
EUR

Average rates

Period-end rates

31 July 2022 
(12 months)

31 July 2021 
(12 months) 31 July 2022 31 July 2021

1.32
1.18

1.36
1.13

1.22
1.19

1.39
1.17

Litigation
Smiths Group faces different types of litigation in different 
jurisdictions. Please see below an update on the two significant 
litigation provisions. For more information, refer to note 23 of 
the financial statements.

John Crane, Inc. litigation 
John Crane, Inc. (JCI) a subsidiary of the Group, continues to 
actively monitor the conduct and effect of its current and expected 
asbestos litigation, including the effective presentation of its ‘safe 
product’ defence, and intends to resist asbestos cases based 
on this defence. Approximately 306,000 claims against JCI have 
been dismissed before trial over the last 40 years. JCI is currently 
a defendant in cases involving approximately 22,000 claims. 
Despite these large numbers of claims, since the inception of 
asbestos litigation against JCI it has had 149 cases and has had to 
pay awards amounting to approximately $175m.

At 31 July 2022, the aggregate provision for JCI asbestos litigation, 
including for adverse judgements and defence costs, amounted to 
£229m (FY2021: £212m) expressed at the then current exchange 
rate. In deciding upon the amount of the provision, JCI has relied 
on independent expert advice from a specialist. 

Titeflex Corporation litigation 
Titeflex Corporation, a subsidiary of the Group in the Flex-Tek 
division, has received a number of claims in recent years from 
insurance companies seeking recompense on a subrogated 
basis for the effects of damages allegedly caused by its flexible 
gas piping products being energised by lightning strikes. It has 
also received a number of product liability claims relating to 
this product, some in the form of purported class actions. 
Titeflex Corporation believes that its products are a safe and 
effective means of delivering gas when installed in accordance 
with the manufacturer’s instructions and local and national codes; 
however, some claims have been settled on an individual basis 
without admission of liability. The continuing progress of claims 
and the pattern of settlement, together with recent market-place 
activity, provide sufficient evidence to recognise a liability in 
the accounts. 

At 31 July 2022, a provision of £52m (FY2021: £47m) has been 
made for the costs which the Group expects to incur in respect of 
these claims. For the Group’s litigation provisions, because of the 
significant uncertainty associated with the future level of claims 
and of the costs arising out of the related litigation, there is no 
guarantee that the assumptions used to estimate the provision 
will result in an accurate prediction of the actual costs that may 
be incurred.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS17

John Crane is well positioned to support 
customers through the energy transition. 
John Crane is working closely with 
customers and stakeholders to accelerate 
innovation across several decarbonisation 
themes to reduce methane and other 
GHG emissions, increase asset efficiency, 
and enable rapid scaling of low-carbon 
hydrogen, along with carbon capture, 
utilisation and storage. As an example, 
the John Crane Sense® digital platform 
monitors the condition and effectiveness of 
equipment and helps customers optimise 
maintenance schedules and minimise 
downtime. John Crane’s upstream 
pumping seals, used in water intensive 
industries, save an average of one million 
gallons of water per seal per year. 

John Crane secured multiple new 
contracts in sustainability and hydrogen 
including from NatureWorks, one of the 
largest producers of biopolymers and the 
NEOM Green Hydrogen Project, further 
cementing John Crane’s leadership in 
these major environmental themes.

Headline operating profit of £188m 
decreased by (2.8)% on an organic 
basis, as pricing offset cost inflation 
but was impacted by increased costs 
associated with supply chain disruption 
and increased R&D investment for future 
growth. To further strengthen John 
Crane’s position for these significant 
growth opportunities and to better serve 
customers a number of targeted actions 
have been identified. These actions are 
focused on simplifying the end-to-end 
value chain resulting in an even more agile 
and efficient business.

Headline operating profit was up +0.2% on 
a reported basis, with +£2m of favourable 
foreign exchange and £4m of restructuring 
costs charged in FY2021. The difference 
between statutory and headline operating 
profit includes the net cost in relation 
to the provision for John Crane, Inc. 
asbestos litigation and Russia-related 
impairment and closure costs. 

DIVISIONAL REVIEW 

JOHN CRANE

FY2022 FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

FY2022  
£m

FY2021  
£m

Reported  
growth

H1  
organic  
growth

H2  
organic  
growth

FY  
organic 
growth

READ MORE  
www.smiths.com

Revenue

Original Equipment
Aftermarket
Energy
Industrials

Headline operating profit
Headline operating profit margin
Statutory operating profit
Return on capital employed
R&D cash costs as % of sales

REVENUE

(£m)

Revenue 

OPERATING PROFIT

(£m)

+5.1%
+4.2%
+1.8%
+2.2%
+5.1% +6.6%
+3.9%
+4.5%
+0.2% +6.3%

+2.5% +3.7%
+2.7% +2.3%
+2.4% +4.3%
+7.5% +0.3% +3.5%
+1.7% +5.8% +3.9%
(8.9)% (2.8)%
+20bps (270)bps (140)bps

901
279
622
530
371
188

865
273
592
510
355
187
20.9% 21.6% (70)bps
(9.2)%
184
19.4% 20.0% (60)bps
2.5% 2.1% +40bps

167

FY2021  
reported

Foreign  
exchange

Organic 
movement

FY2022  
reported 

865

4

32

901

FY2021  
reported

FY2021 
restructuring  
costs

Foreign  
exchange

Organic 
movement

FY2022 
reported 

Headline operating profit 
Headline operating profit margin 

187
21.6%

4
+50bps

2

(5)
+10bps (140)bps

188
20.9%

John Crane’s strong market position, 
global service network, and collaborative 
customer relationships underpin its 
performance. Organic revenue was up 
+3.7% for the year, with growth across 
both of John Crane’s segments; Energy 
up +3.5% and Industrial up +3.9%. 
On a reported basis, revenue was up 
+4.2%, with a £4m favourable foreign 
exchange impact. 

Activity levels remained high through 
FY2022 with +10.5% order growth and 
a record order book. Organic revenue 
growth in H2 of +2.5% (H1: +5.1%) was 
tempered by the cessation of sales into 
Russia from March 2022, a (110)bps 
impact for H2 and (60)bps for FY2022. 
Extended lead times on certain materials 
also impacted order book conversion.

Aftermarket represents 69% of John 
Crane’s revenue (FY2021: 68%). 
Aftermarket revenue was up +4.3% on an 
organic basis. John Crane’s large installed 
base and leading service offering positions 
it well to meet the strong demand for 
aftermarket repairs, maintenance and 
upgrades. Organic revenue from Original 
Equipment (OE) was up +2.3%. The rate 
of new orders continues to improve, with 
strong OE order growth in the second half.

Customer demand across both OE and 
aftermarket is strong, driven by the 
increasing demand for energy, along 
with decarbonisation and the transition 
to clean energy sources. Customers are 
requiring systems to be more reliable 
and energy efficient, interconnected and 
digitally enabled, and use diverse low-
carbon energy sources. These trends 
benefit John Crane as they require 
significant investment in new infrastructure 
and retrofits to existing infrastructure, 
as well as new technology to reduce 
cost and accelerate the deployment of 
cleaner energy. 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSROCE
ROCE was 19.4%, down (60)bps, due 
to investment in working capital 
through FY2022.

R&D
Cash R&D expenditure increased to 2.5% 
of sales (FY2021: 2.1%). John Crane’s 
innovation is primarily focused on 
enhancing efficiency, performance and 
sustainability by using materials science 
advancements to reduce friction in high-
duty wet seals or increase maximum 
rotating speed required in next generation 
hydrogen compressors. John Crane 
is also investing in faster modelling to 
reduce development time and increase 
seal performance.

John Crane sealing solutions have a 
significant role in helping our customers 
in their sustainability journeys through 
reducing leaks. Examples of such products 
include a seal for demanding hydrocarbon 
pipelines with a unique, patented seal 
technology that significantly extends the 
mean time between repair, reducing 
maintenance, improving efficiency and 
protecting the environment from potentially 
harmful leaks. We also launched John 
Crane Sense® Turbo, which includes a 
first-to-market sensor-enabled dry gas 
seal. This ground-breaking technology 
introduces the John Crane Sense® 
platform, providing real-time monitoring 
and machine learning diagnostics on 
equipment, helping customers to prevent 
leaks and reduce downtime.

18

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SMITHS DETECTION

FY2022 FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

FY2022  
£m

FY2021  
£m

Reported  
growth

H1  
organic  
growth

H2  
organic  
growth

FY  
organic  
growth

Revenue

Original Equipment
Aftermarket
Aviation
Other Security Systems
Headline operating profit
Headline operating profit margin
Statutory operating profit
Return on capital employed
R&D cash costs as % of sales

REVENUE

(£m)

Revenue 

OPERATING PROFIT

(£m)

+7.3% +4.0%

(7.2)% (11.3)% (9.4)%
(23.1)% (17.5)% (26.7)% (22.6)%
+7.7% +5.9%
(14.5)% (12.5)% (16.5)% (14.7)%
+7.1%
+8.1% +6.2%
(26.8)% (13.0)% (42.0)% (30.7)%
(80)bps (570)bps (340)bps

+7.4%

(9.1)%

655
300
355
467
188
73

721
390
331
546
175
99
11.1% 13.7% (260)bps
77
(53.2)%
7.1% 9.7% (260)bps
9.3% 7.4% +190bps

36

FY2021  
reported

Foreign  
exchange

Organic 
movement

FY2022  
reported 

721

2

(68)

655

FY2021  
reported

FY2021 
restructuring 
cost

Foreign  
exchange

Organic 
movement

FY2022  
reported 

Headline operating profit 
Headline operating profit margin 

99
13.7%

6
+90bps

(1)

(31)
(10)bps (340)bps

73
11.1%

Smiths Detection grew in all segments 
except for Aviation original equipment (OE) 
which, as anticipated, was impacted by its 
challenging end market. Organic revenue 
declined (9.4)% or (9.1)% on a reported 
basis, including £2m of favourable foreign 
exchange. The cessation of sales to Russia 
resulted in a headwind of (70)bps in H2 and 
(40)bps for the full year.

OE represented 46% of FY2022 revenues. 
Organic OE revenues were down (22.6)%. 
Good growth in OE sales for Other Security 
Systems (OSS) were more than offset by 
lower Aviation OE sales as customers 
continue to stabilise operations post the 
COVID pandemic. 

54% of Smiths Detection’s sales 
were derived from the aftermarket. 
The underlying trend in aftermarket 
revenues across both Aviation and Other 
Security Systems continued to improve, 
accelerating in H2 to deliver +5.9% growth 
in FY2022, reflecting the benefit of a large 
installed base and a return to more typical 
operating patterns. 

Organic revenue from Aviation decreased 
(14.7)% reflecting the slowdown in the 
Aviation OE market. Although we expect 
continued market challenges in the near-
term, we are increasingly well positioned for 
recovery when it comes. Tender activity in 
Aviation has started to increase, and Smiths 
Detection continues to secure new contracts 
with order intake growing. Recent wins 
include contracts for hold baggage in the 
US; checkpoint security in Italy, Japan and 
Ireland; and for both hold baggage and 
checkpoint in Mexico and South Korea.

Organic revenue from OSS grew by +7.1%, 
driven by demand for Ports & Borders 
solutions. Expanding the OSS segment is a 
key tenet of Smiths Detection’s strategy to 
expand into attractive market adjacencies. 
This is demonstrated by key OSS contract 
wins in FY2022 including high-energy X-ray 
systems for customers in Japan and the 
US; this year’s Commonwealth Games 
where Smiths Detection were the official 
security provider; radiation solutions to 
transportation customers in the US; and 
defence equipment development projects for 
the US Department of Defense. 

Given the new contract wins across Aviation 
and OSS and the strong order intake 
through FY2022 we expect a return to 
growth in FY2023.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSmiths Detection’s headline operating 
profit was down (30.7)% on an organic 
basis, impacted by lower volumes and 
supply chain challenges, particularly 
the scarcity of electronic components 
and increased logistics costs. 
Headline operating profit of £73m was 
down (26.8)% on a reported basis, 
including £(1)m adverse foreign exchange 
translation and £6m of restructuring 
charges in FY2021. 

Headline operating profit margin was 
11.1%, down (340)bps on an organic 
basis and (260)bps on a reported basis. 
A number of restructuring initiatives 
are underway that will enable Smiths 
Detection to be more resilient in 
responding to changes in its end markets 
and deliver improved margins. 

The difference between statutory and 
headline operating profit primarily reflects 
amortisation of acquired intangibles and 
a charge for write-downs associated with 
Smiths Detection’s exit from Russia. 

ROCE
ROCE decreased by (260)bps to 7.1%, 
due to lower profitability in FY2022. 

R&D
Cash R&D expenditure was 9.3% of sales, 
+190bps higher than last year. This includes 
an increase in customer funded projects to 
£14m (FY2021: £9m). 

Smiths Detection continued to invest 
in the development of next generation 
detection devices for the defence market, 
new algorithms to improve the detection 
of dangerous goods, and digital solutions 
to strengthen our aftermarket proposition 
to make people and infrastructure 
safer. Certain programmes are co-
funded by strategic customers seeking 
next-generation solutions to security 
challenges. During FY2022, we launched 
a new high-volume air cargo screening 
technology, as well as an extension of our 
automated detection algorithm, iCMORE, 
to enable currency detection, supporting 
the fight against global money laundering, 
weapons detection, lithium batteries and 
dangerous goods.

19

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FLEX-TEK

FY2022 FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

FY2022  
£m

FY2021  
£m

Reported  
growth

H1  
organic  
growth

H2  
organic  
growth

FY  
organic  
growth

Revenue

Industrials
Aerospace

Headline operating profit
Headline operating profit margin
Statutory operating profit
Return on capital employed
R&D cash costs as % of sales

REVENUE

(£m)

Revenue 

OPERATING PROFIT

(£m)

647
531
116
133

508
409
99
97

+27.4% +10.0% +20.9% +16.1%
+29.8% +8.5% +22.6% +16.3%
+17.5% +16.1% +13.4% +14.6%
+37.1% +18.3% +24.3% +21.7%
+60bps +90bps

20.6% 19.1% +150bps +150bps

106

+27.7%
83
25.6% 21.6% +400bps
0.4% 0.5% (10)bps

FY2021 
reported 

Foreign  
exchange

Acquisitions

Organic 
movement 

FY2022  
reported 

508

14

42

83

647

FY2021  
reported

Foreign  
exchange

Acquisitions

Organic 
movement

FY2022  
reported 

Headline operating profit 
Headline operating profit margin 

97

3
19.1% +10bps

 11
+50bps

22
+90bps

133
20.6%

Flex-Tek’s agile operating model and 
close customer relationships contributed 
to a record year for the business. 
Organic revenue increased +16.1%, 
with record growth in the second half 
of +20.9%. Revenue grew +27.4% on a 
reported basis, including +£14m favourable 
foreign exchange translation and +£42m 
from acquisitions. 

Organic revenue from Flex-Tek’s Industrial 
segment was up +16.3%. Strong growth 
was driven by demand for its construction-
related products in the US, particularly 
for HVAC applications, where Flex-Tek 
continued to outperform the underlying 
market. Other drivers included good growth 
of its industrial heat applications and active 
price management. Demand remained 
strong throughout the second half, and 
the business remains vigilant of key 
market indicators. 

During the second half, Flex-Tek continued 
to execute its growth strategy, launching 
the Python line sets product, a multi-layer 
pipe used in various HVAC applications, 
replacing the traditional and more costly 
copper pipes. It also expanded its metal 
ducting offering which was introduced to 
the portfolio as part of the Royal Metals 
acquisition, with the opening of a dedicated 
greenfield facility in Texas. 

Organic revenue from Flex-Tek’s Aerospace 
segment was up +14.6% as the aerospace 
market benefits from an increasing number 
of aircraft builds. 

Headline operating profit increased 
+21.7% on an organic basis, reflecting 
increased volumes and strong cost 
management. Headline operating profit 
was up +37.1% at £133m on a reported 
basis, including +£3m favourable foreign 
exchange translation and +£11m from 
acquisitions. Headline operating profit 
margin was up +150bps to 20.6%, on a 
reported basis. The difference between 
statutory and headline operating profit is 
due to amortisation of acquired intangible 
assets and provision for Titeflex Corporation 
subrogation claims. 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSIn February 2021, the Group acquired Royal 
Metal, a leading manufacturer of residential 
and light commercial HVAC products for 
$107m. During H1 2022 the acquisition 
contributed £42m of revenue and £11m of 
operating profit. Since February 2022, Royal 
Metal results have been accounted for as 
organic growth. 

Royal Metal complements the organic 
growth that Flex-Tek is already driving 
through the development of innovative air 
distribution products that support improved 
energy efficiency and indoor air quality. 
The acquisition provides the benefits of 
complementary HVAC portfolios, synergies 
in distribution, and positive pricing, 
demonstrating the value that we can create 
through our highly disciplined and selective 
M&A process. 

ROCE
ROCE increased +400bps to 25.6% 
reflecting the record profit growth 
in FY2022.

R&D
Cash R&D expenditure remained broadly 
consistent at 0.4% of sales (FY2021: 0.5%). 
R&D is focused on developing new products 
for the construction market, and an 
expanded product offering in aerospace.

20

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SMITHS INTERCONNECT

FY2022 FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

FY2022  
£m

FY2021  
£m

Reported  
growth

H1  
organic  
growth

H2  
organic  
growth

FY  
organic  
growth

Revenue
Headline operating profit
Headline operating profit margin
Statutory operating profit
Return on capital employed
R&D cash costs as % of sales

REVENUE

(£m)

Revenue 

OPERATING PROFIT

(£m)

363
65

+16.3% +12.9% +14.8% +13.9%
+88.2% +58.7% +28.0% +39.7%
18.0% 11.2% +680bps +490bps +190bps +330bps

312
35

64

34
+88.2%
16.3% 8.8% +750bps
5.6% 6.3% (70)bps

FY2021  
reported

Foreign  
exchange

Organic 
movement

FY2022  
reported 

312

6

45

363

FY2021  
reported

FY2021 
restructuring  
costs

Foreign  
exchange

Organic 
movement

FY2022  
reported 

Headline operating profit 
Headline operating profit margin 

35

10
11.2% +330bps

1

19
+10bps +330bps

65
18.0%

Smiths Interconnect’s cutting-edge 
solutions and strong positions in its market 
subsegments underpinned a very strong 
FY2022 performance with organic revenue 
up +13.9%. Revenue growth in H2 2022 
accelerated to +14.8% reflecting ongoing 
momentum from a growing order book and 
new product launches. Revenue increased 
by +16.3% on a reported basis, with +£6m 
favourable foreign exchange translation. 

Headline operating profit increased +39.7% 
on an organic basis, with growth driven 
by strong revenue performance, positive 
pricing actions and good supply chain 
management. Headline operating profit was 
up +88.2% to £65m on a reported basis, 
including £10m of restructuring costs in 
FY2021. Headline operating profit margin 
was 18.0%, up +680bps on a reported basis 
and +330bps on an organic basis.

This strong performance reflects growth 
across the semiconductor test business 
with continued high demand, coupled with 
new product launches and new customer 
wins. Smiths Interconnect’s space and 
defence products also delivered good 
growth, in particular coming from the 
launch of 28G fibre-optic transceivers for 
satellite communications and from space-
qualified connectors. During the second 
half, Smiths Interconnect progressed 
its growth into adjacencies with the 
successful introduction of its first medical 
cable assembly product. 

Smiths Interconnect enters FY2023 
with significant orders for its space-
qualified products for commercial 
satellite constellations, next generation 
chip testing solutions and for medical 
cable assemblies.

The difference between statutory and 
headline operating profit reflects the 
amortisation of acquired intangibles. 

ROCE
ROCE increased +750bps to 16.3%, driven 
by higher profitability. 

R&D
Cash R&D expenditure represented 5.6% 
of sales (FY2021: 6.3%), with the absolute 
spend year on year remaining the same. 
R&D is focused on bringing to market new 
products that improve connectivity and 
product integrity in demanding operating 
environments. Product launches included 
the new space qualified connectors 
and optical transceivers, which enable 
high-speed, reliable data processing 
for communication satellites and GPS 
navigation systems; medical connectors 
used in critical care; and upgrades of semi-
test products.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS21

KEY 
PERFORMANCE 
INDICATORS

Key
Link to strategy

Growth 

Execution 

People 

Financial targets
Our financial targets were set out at our Capital Markets Day in November 2021. Our robust financial framework 
underpins the Smiths Value Engine powered by recurring revenue growth, high margins, low asset intensity and 
exceptional cash generation.

All measures exclude Smiths Medical. Alternative Performance Measures (APMs) and key performance indicators are defined in note 29 
to the financial statements.

ORGANIC REVENUE GROWTH

Growing faster is the primary driver of unlocking value 
creation for the Group.

STRATEGY

PERFORMANCE

LINKED TO 
REMUNERATION

FY2022 PROGRESS
In FY2022 we delivered organic revenue growth in all four 
quarters of the year and full year growth of +3.8%. Growth 
accelerated in H2 vs H1 to +4.1%.

MEDIUM-TERM 
TARGET 

+4-6%

OPERATING PROFIT MARGIN

Stronger execution is the second key priority for the Group 
and will drive higher margins.

STRATEGY

PERFORMANCE

FY2022 PROGRESS
In FY2022 margin was resilient at 16.3%, amidst a challenging 
macro environment, while continuing to invest in future 
growth.

MEDIUM-TERM 
TARGET 

18-20%

EARNINGS PER SHARE GROWTH

Strong margins will convert revenue growth into 
earnings growth.

STRATEGY

PERFORMANCE

FY2022 PROGRESS
In FY2022 we delivered strong EPS growth of 17.8%, driven 
by operating profit growth, a reduction in the effective 
headline tax rate, and the benefit from the ongoing share 
buyback programme.

MEDIUM-TERM 
TARGET 

+7-10%

FY2022

FY2021

FY2020

FY2019

FY2018

FY2022

FY2021

FY2020

FY2019

FY2018

FY2022

FY2021

FY2020

FY2019

FY2018

3.8%

(2.2)%

(1.0)%

3.0%

3.4%

16.3%

15.5%

12.8%

17.1%

16.6%

17.8%

19.3%

(27.4)%

11.0%

11.7%

P 11

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CEO review of the year

LINKED TO 
REMUNERATION

P 11

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CEO review of the year

LINKED TO 
REMUNERATION

P 11

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CEO review of the year

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
 
 
 
22

STRATEGY

PERFORMANCE

LINKED TO 
REMUNERATION

RETURN ON CAPITAL EMPLOYED (ROCE)

Monitoring our return on capital acts as a discipline on both 
organic and inorganic investment to drive maximum value 
from our growth.

FY2022 PROGRESS
In FY2022 ROCE increased +30bps to 14.2% as high 
profitability more than offset investment in working capital.

OPERATING CASH CONVERSION

Maintaining our strong track record of cash conversion is a 
key component of our robust financial framework. 

FY2022

FY2021

FY2020

FY2019

FY2018

MEDIUM-TERM 
TARGET 

15-17%

STRATEGY

PERFORMANCE

FY2022 PROGRESS
In FY2022 we delivered solid operating cash conversion 
of 80% while navigating supply chain disruption and the 
associated investment in working capital.

MEDIUM-TERM 
TARGET 

100%+

FY2022

FY2021

FY2020

FY2019

FY2018

14.2%

13.9%

12.8%

15.7%

15.3%

80%

129%

112%

74%

104%

P 11

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CEO review of the year

LINKED TO 
REMUNERATION

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CEO review of the year

Operational targets
Our operational targets are also aligned to our three Smiths Value Engine priorities.

Alternative Performance Measures (APMs)  and key performance indicators are defined in note 29 to the financial statements.

GROSS VITALITY

Gross Vitality measures the revenue contribution of 
products launched in the last five years. Improved new 
product development and commercialisation is a key 
component of our growth strategy. 

STRATEGY

PERFORMANCE

FY2022

FY2021

P 11

31%

25%

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CEO review of the year

FY2022 PROGRESS
In FY2022 revenue from new products increased to 31% of 
total revenue, demonstrating the success of our continued 
investment in R&D and commercialisation of new products.

MEDIUM-TERM 
TARGET 

30%+

Gross Vitality is a new KPI in FY2022

GREENHOUSE GAS REDUCTION

Meeting our commitment to deliver Net Zero Scope 1 & 
2 GHG emissions by 2040 is a fundamental part of our 
sustainability strategy. Performance data is normalised to 
revenue.

FY2022 PROGRESS
In FY2022 we achieved a reduction in Scope 1 & 2 emissions 
of (7.2)% normalised to revenue. Absolute Scope 1 & 2 
emissions fell by (1.1)%.

STRATEGY

PERFORMANCE

LINKED TO 
REMUNERATION

FY2022

(7.2)%

MEDIUM-TERM 
TARGET 
Net Zero 
Scope 1 & 
2 emissions 
by 2040

FY2021 data was restated in FY2022 using the basis 
of preparation described on page 29. Historic Scope 
1 & 2 data is therefore not comparable.

P 24

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Sustainability at Smiths 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS23

P 24

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Sustainability at Smiths 

P 24

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Sustainability at Smiths 

P 24

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Sustainability at Smiths 

0.54

0.47

0.35

0.50

0.44

72

71

73

72

71

24%

23%

RECORDABLE INCIDENT RATE

Our commitment to our people starts with keeping us 
all safe and healthy. This is our essential foundation and 
number one focus. Our key safety metric is Recordable 
Incident Rate (RIR) per 100 colleagues.

STRATEGY

PERFORMANCE

FY2022 PROGRESS
Group RIR in FY2022 was 0.54, 15% above FY2021, but 
continued to track below the industry average and in the top 
quartile of industry performance.

MEDIUM-TERM 
TARGET 
A zero harm 
workplace

MY SAY SURVEY ENGAGEMENT SCORE

Engaging our people is key to the success of our strategy. 
We have been tracking employee engagement on a range of 
important cultural measures since 2017.

STRATEGY

PERFORMANCE

FY2022

FY2021

FY2020

FY2019

FY2018

FY2022

FY2021

FY2020

FY2019

FY2018

FY2022 PROGRESS
Our overall global engagement score remained stable 
in FY2022 and we continued to have a very high survey 
response rate of 82%.

MEDIUM-TERM 
TARGET 
Upper 
quartile

DIVERSITY

We are focused on proactively increasing the number of 
women in leadership roles at Smiths, with our measure 
being percentage of senior leadership positions taken by 
females.

FY2022 PROGRESS
We made progress during FY2022 to reach 24% senior 
leadership positions taken by females.

STRATEGY

PERFORMANCE

FY2022

FY2021

MEDIUM-TERM 
TARGET 
30% by 
the end of 
FY2024

Percentage of senior leadership positions taken by 
females is a new KPI in FY2022.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSUSTAINABILITY 
AT SMITHS 

24

Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) performance 
is at the very centre of our Purpose, and we are committed 
to sustainability leadership.

We believe in doing business responsibly, the right way every day, 
and translating our Purpose and Values into practical action that 
mobilises Smiths strengths to improve our world. We are pioneering 
progress towards a sustainable future through our products, 
services, operations, and our people – pursuing excellence in 
everything we do. We are committing to ambitious targets and taking 
tangible action to deliver value for all our stakeholders.

See our Sustainability at Smiths Report for further information 
on our ESG framework, priorities and performance.

READ MORE  
Sustainability at Smiths Report

Our ESG framework
We distinguish ten foundational ESG elements that are essential to our success.

SUSTAINABILITY AT SMITHS 

T

N

N M E

O

V I R

N

E

Delivering  
Net Zero GHG

Commercialising  
high-value  
green technologies

Respecting natural 
resources

Improving safety,  
health and well-being

L

C I A

O

S

N

R

E

V

O

G

Developing 
talent

Promoting diversity, 
equity and inclusion

E

C

N

A

Contributing to our 
communities

Behaving ethically  
and legally

Effective long-term 
decision making and 
transparency

Managing risk and  
maintaining strong and  
effective controls

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS25

ENVIRONMENT

SOCIAL

COMMERCIALISING HIGH-VALUE  
GREEN TECHNOLOGIES

IMPROVING SAFETY,  
HEALTH AND WELL-BEING

Our commitment to our people starts with keeping us 
all safe and healthy. This is our essential foundation 
and number one focus. We strive to always improve 
and be proactive, including designing for safety; 
strengthening our safety culture every day; and 
working to improve our colleagues’ lives in the round.
We are thankful for those who came before us and 
helped establish robust safety cultures at our sites that 
we work to continuously renew, strengthen and connect. 
We understand that strong safety culture is fundamentally 
about keeping safety personal and must reflect, and 
respect, our diverse and global organisation. 

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Safety

DEVELOPING TALENT 

Our organisational commitment is to  
ensure that all our colleagues have opportunities to  
develop their skills and reach their full potential. 
Smiths colleagues have access to training and resources 
to undertake their roles safely, effectively, and in line with 
our policies. Colleagues also have access to a developing 
range of personal and skills growth resources as they 
progress in their careers including specialist technical 
and functional and externally accredited programmes. 
We are currently honing our leadership programmes to 
better support business needs and so that our leaders 
can more effectively support their teams. 

READ MORE  
Sustainability at Smiths report

Among our biggest opportunities to deliver 
stakeholder value is running our businesses well and 
driving growth through delivery of top commercial 
programmes that enable sustainability performance 
for and through our customers. 
We support customers and industries that are leading the 
way to a sustainable future by developing and implementing 
green technology solutions targeting climate risk, energy 
transition and next generation, efficient infrastructure. 
Our unique engineering capabilities and technologies 
position us strongly to support customers on this vital 
journey and we are targeting new product development 
opportunities in growth markets where our technology and 
capabilities offer differentiated value through improved 
sustainability performance. 

Developing and commercialising sustainability-advantaged 
products and services will enable Smiths to have an even 
greater positive impact on global environmental priorities 
than we could achieve on our own.

READ MORE  
Sustainability at Smiths report

DELIVERING NET ZERO GHG 

We have a successful record of delivering  
reductions in our operational GHG emissions.  
We are now taking big steps forward.
In FY2022, we committed to ambitious Net Zero targets that 
align Smiths with the UN’s critical global climate objectives: 
Net Zero emissions from our operations (Scope 1 & 2) by 
2040 and Net Zero emissions from our supply chain and 
products in use (Scope 3) by 2050. 

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Environment

RESPECTING NATURAL  
RESOURCES 

Natural resources are finite, and we  
believe that all businesses have a responsibility 
to use them respectfully and safely – minimising 
consumption and preventing pollution. 
Our longstanding commitments to use energy efficiently 
and minimise waste are increasingly of interest and value 
to our customers as they also seek to manage their own 
environmental footprints.

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Environment

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
 
26

SOCIAL continued

GOVERNANCE

PROMOTING DIVERSITY,  
EQUITY AND INCLUSION 

BEHAVING ETHICALLY  
AND LEGALLY 

Our team of colleagues represents dozens  
of nations, speaking a multiplicity of languages,  
and embodying many different perspectives. We strive 
to embrace these differences and promote actions and 
behaviours that will deliver an inclusive and supportive 
work environment where every member of the Smiths 
team can be the best version of themselves. 
We know that when colleagues feel included, valued, and 
encouraged to make a meaningful contribution, Smiths will 
thrive as we continue to attract and retain the diverse talent 
that we need. 
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People

CONTRIBUTING TO  
OUR COMMUNITIES 

We aim to improve our world by  
contributing positively to our communities  
and society in general. 
Smiths products and services support critical global 
industries where we are pioneering progress in 
safety, efficiency, and environmental performance. 
Our operations around the world play a beneficial 
role in local economies through job creation and skills 
development; procurement and generating tax revenues; 
and operating safely, environmentally responsibly and 
ethically. We also engage directly through fundraising, 
charitable giving and education initiatives.

READ MORE  
Sustainability at Smiths report

Behaving ethically and with integrity is a  
fundamental part of our Values. We also operate in 
some highly regulated markets and sectors which 
require strict adherence to local and international 
industry regulations.
We have a mature governance environment with exacting 
standards, robust diligence processes and a proactive 
management approach. And we seek to work with partners 
who support our Values to minimise risk and maximise 
our positive social and environmental impact. 

READ MORE  
Sustainability at Smiths report

MANAGING RISK AND  
MAINTAINING STRONG  
AND EFFECTIVE CONTROLS 

Continual assessment and management of risks, 
and assurance through internal controls, is an 
integral part of day-to-day operations at Smiths. 
Our enterprise risk management (ERM) process supports 
open communication on risk between the Board and the 
Audit & Risk Committee, the Executive Committee, our 
divisions, and sites, and ensures that risk is appropriately 
managed to deliver our business objectives. ESG matters 
are fully integrated into the ERM process and are identified 
and managed in the same way as other Group risks.

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Risk management

EFFECTIVE LONG-TERM  
DECISION MAKING  
AND TRANSPARENCY 

Good quality, ethical and effective decision- 
making builds sustainable businesses and  
enables them to create long-term value for 
all stakeholders. 
Our overall governance framework provides the structures 
and systems through which our strategies and objectives 
are set and achieved, how risk is monitored and managed 
via controls, and how our performance is managed and 
optimised with appropriate oversight from the Board.

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Governance

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
27

Our ESG strategic priorities
Our sustainability strategy follows our Smiths Value Engine priorities – Growth, Execution and People. 

Within this framework, we focus on our highest-impact opportunities to accelerate performance and create value with specific actions 
that will lead to concrete and measurable results.

Deliver sustainable growth by targeting high-growth markets where we can 
leverage our unique capabilities to develop and deliver differentiated technology 
solutions which help solve some of the world’s biggest challenges for our 
customers and global communities

Growth

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about Growth

 – Prioritise new product development (NPD) programmes that deliver the sustainability 
performance our customers need and want. Develop and designate top sustainable 
growth NPD programmes in each division that contribute significantly to divisional 
revenue growth and where commercial success will deliver corresponding 
sustainability performance benefits, such as energy efficiency, GHG reduction, 
and renewable energy production

 – Integrate environmental sustainability metrics into our NPD processes to enable 

our own Net Zero delivery, and our customers’ and the industries we serve

Deliver our commitments to Net Zero Science-Based Targets (SBTs) 
and further improve the environmental performance of our operations

Execution

 – Deliver operational targets for renewable energy, waste generation, water use 

and packaging

 – Deliver Net Zero GHG emissions commitments for Scopes 1, 2 and 3 and associated 
SBTs through energy efficiency and renewable energy, including optimising product 
design and our supply chains

Deliver for people, ensuring that we grow our business in line with our Values, 
our Leadership Behaviours, and plan for the long-term future of Smiths

People

 – Sustain and vitalise our safety culture and performance

 – Develop and empower Smiths talent for the future

 – Embed an inclusive and diverse culture and increase gender diversity

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about Execution

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about People

Remuneration
To align decision-making and ownership of our ESG goals, SSE 
metrics will form part of the Smiths annual and long-term incentive 
plans for FY2023. A GHG reduction metric formed part of our long-
term incentive plan in FY2022.

P 75

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Remuneration & People Committee Report

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
28

OUR VALUES

SMITHS LEADERSHIP BEHAVIOURS

Our enabling culture
At Smiths our culture empowers and enables our people to deliver 
on our Purpose. Living our five Values every day, in each action and 
decision that we take, makes Smiths a place where we are happy 
and proud to work. It’s what makes us reliable, trustworthy, and 
valued partners for our customers and suppliers and supports the 
long-term sustainability and success of our business model.

The Smiths Leadership Behaviours incorporate our Values 
and apply them to delivering for all stakeholders. The seven 
Leadership Behaviours describe how we work with one another, 
demonstrate our Values, and create value through our actions. 
Importantly, the Leadership Behaviours apply to everyone at 
Smiths – from the shop floor to senior executives. Whatever role 
we play, we can all demonstrate and develop our Leadership 
Behaviours to improve and deliver as a team, developing 
and sharing our talents to support each other and improve 
our tomorrow. 

Our goal is to use the Leadership Behaviours to inspire and help 
strengthen and shift the Smiths culture to be even more dynamic, 
inclusive, and focused on delivering results that create value for 
our people, customers and other stakeholders.

We have been tracking engagement on a range of important 
cultural measures including safety, ethics, belonging, inclusivity, 
leadership, and service since 2017. Our overall global engagement 
score remained stable for May 2022 and November 2021, 
just below the benchmark provided by our survey partner. 
We continued to have a very high survey response rate of 82% in 
May 2022 with nearly 19,000 comments submitted. See our KPIs 
on page 23.

We will continue to use the survey in a transparent and meticulous 
way to surface issues and more precisely understand what we 
are doing well and where we need to do better. We also intend 
to flex the questions in future surveys to test engagement 
within focus areas and to ensure that we continue to work and 
communicate effectively.

Ethics
Behaving ethically and with integrity is a fundamental part of our 
Values. Our Code of Business Ethics guides Smiths colleagues 
to recognise and deal appropriately with legal and ethical issues 
that they may encounter in the course of their work. This is 
supplemented by a suite of policies and procedures relating to 
specific ethics and compliance matters. 

Our colleagues and business partners are expected to report any 
activity – whether in our business or those of our partners – that 
they consider may be in breach of our ethics codes and policies. 
Both our colleagues and partners have access to our confidential 
‘Speak Out’ reporting hotline, which is accessible 24 hours a day, 
seven days a week. Reports can be made anonymously.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
29

ESG governance and oversight
The Smiths Board of Directors and Executive Committee 
have ultimate responsibility for Smiths ESG performance and 
associated governance and oversight. The Science, Sustainability 
& Excellence (SSE) Committee of the Board, chaired by Dame 
Ann Dowling, is responsible for overseeing the Group’s approach 
to science, sustainability, and excellence. The oversight 
covers R&D, commercialisation and sustainability strategies, 
including the impact of climate change and related metrics 
and targets. The Remuneration & People Committee oversees 
our approach to people and culture matters, and the Audit & 
Risk Committee oversees our risk management processes 
and systems of internal control. The Nomination & Governance 
Committee keeps the Group’s high-level governance framework 
under review to ensure appropriate guidance and oversight is 
maintained. Sustainability strategy and delivery are led by members 
of the Smiths Executive Committee: our Chief Sustainability 
Officer; Chief People Officer; Group General Counsel; and our 
divisional Presidents.

Our strategic oversight and collaboration model enables us to 
bring together the skills and knowledge of our Board, our executive 
team and business and functional leaders to drive effective long-
term decision making, ESG innovation and best practices across 
Smiths. Our Smiths Excellence System supports the whole, driving 
business-wide results-focused execution. ESG metrics and targets 
are cascaded through the divisions and embedded in our core 
operating model. 

ESG reporting
We follow established reporting standards and regularly report our 
performance, transparently sharing our data and engaging with third-
party ratings agencies. We use this information to evaluate our own 
progress and inform the work we are doing in our focus areas.

Environmental data – basis of preparation
Group environmental data in this report excludes Smiths Medical. 
Smiths Medical energy use and GHG Scope 1 & 2 emissions data is 
shown separately in the table on page 30. 

In preparation for setting Science-Based Targets aligned to 
our Net Zero commitments, in FY2022 a robust review of our 
FY2021 Scope 1 & 2 GHG inventory and historic assessments of 
materiality and classification was undertaken by our external 
specialist partner, Ramboll. This was undertaken in accordance 
with ISO standards. This process resulted in the reclassification 
of certain activities and site data, previously determined to be 
immaterial and Scope 3. The reclassification meant that such 
activities and data is now incorporated within our Scope 1 & 2 
inventories. In addition, our GHG emissions are calculated using 
revised regional emissions factors. Based on this work, energy 
use and emissions data for Smiths Group has been restated from 
that previously disclosed for FY2021. The same approach has been 
used for FY2022 emissions data and calculations.

FY2021 restatement:

–  Smiths leased ground fleet and small leased offices/sites 

(previously considered to be Scope 3) re-classified as Scopes 
1&2 (added 39,083 MWh)

–  Inclusion of our Royal Metal acquisition’s site and transportation 

fleet (added 5,289 MWh)

–  Energy use updated for some sites (added less than 500 MWh)
–  Regional Scope 2 emission factors updated (reduced emissions 

by 9,981 t CO2e)

–  Base revenue data has also been updated for all normalised 

calculations including GHG emissions, water and waste

Stakeholder expectations, standards and third-party assurance 
practices continue to evolve in this area. Our methods and 
practices will continue to improve and be reflected in our 
environmental performance results and associated disclosures.

ESG governance and oversight model 

Smiths Board

Science, Sustainability & 
Excellence Committee

Remuneration &  
People Committee

Nomination &  
Governance Committee

Audit &  
Risk Committee

Executive Committee

Divisional Presidents

Chief Sustainability 
Officer

Chief People Officer

Group General 
Counsel

Division Commercial 
Teams – Technology/
Sustainable design

ESG 
Leadership 
Teams

Group HSE 

HR Leadership 
Team

Group 
Ethics and 
Compliance

Company 
Secretary

Director of 
Internal Audit  
and Risk

NPD management 
– customer value and 
sustainable design

Energy Team 
– energy 
efficiency and 
GHG delivery

HSE Technical 
Committee 
– safety and 
environment

HR Business 
Partners

Business 
Ethics 
Councils

Smiths Excellence System

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS30

We have committed to set Science-Based Targets (SBTs) with 
the SBT initiative (SBTi) and signed on to the 1.5° C Business 
Ambition under the UN Race to Zero, covering Scope 1, 2 and 3 
GHG emissions. We will submit proposals to the SBTi in 2022 to 
establish our bespoke plans and interim SBTs.

Based on our review of data materiality, our Scope 3 emissions will 
likely significantly exceed our operational emissions (Scopes 1 & 
2). As is typical and expected for diversified industrial businesses, 
emissions associated with our supply chain (Category 1 Purchased 
Goods and Services) and Products in use (Category 11) are 
anticipated, pending in-process verification, to account for the 
majority of our Scope 3 emissions. As required by the SBTi, our 
proposed interim reduction target will cover more than two thirds 
of our total Scope 3 GHG inventory.

We recognise that delivering our Net Zero targets will require 
consistent and priority focus across all aspects of our global 
operations for the next 15-25 years. In FY2023, we will be 
focused on establishing foundational processes and approaches 
necessary to define and deliver near- and mid-term targets, 
including the interim SBTs required under the SBTi framework. 

Energy use and GHG (Scope 1 & 2) emissions
Smiths includes its Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting 
(SECR) for FY2022, including our emissions and global energy 
use and intensity (normalised) metric below. Our GHG emissions 
calculations and reporting follows the WRI/WBCSD Greenhouse 
Gas protocol (operational approach) and covers emissions from 
all sources under our control, grouped under Scope 1 and Scope 2.

FY2022-2024 target

Progress FY2022

+5% increase to 66%
5% reduction
5% reduction
5% reduction
10 in FY2022
8 in FY2022

+2% increase to 63%
7.2% reduction
11.5% reduction
4.5% reduction
12 projects
5 projects

ENVIRONMENT

Smiths has had environmental improvement targets since FY2007. 
Since FY2007 we have reduced water use and non-recyclable 
waste by more than 30% on an absolute basis and we have 
increased the use of renewable electricity in our operations to 63% 
of total electricity use (sites reporting utility data under Smiths 
HSE Reporting Policy, with 20 or more employees). We achieved 
this by engaging our people, changing our processes, investing in 
low-carbon and energy efficient technologies, and increasing our 
use of renewable electricity.
Climate-related risks and their potential impact on the business 
and its strategy form part of risk reporting and risk management 
across the Group. Due to its long-term nature, climate change is not 
considered to be a principal risk, but we recognise the importance 
of assessing both physical and transition risk from climate change 
in a formal way. See our TCFD disclosure on page 35.

We have agreed the three standards relevant to our business under 
the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) framework 
(Aerospace Defence; Electronic and Electric Equipment; and 
Industrial Machinery and Goods) and we are reviewing the potential 
applicability of a fourth (Electronic Manufacturing and Original 
Design Manufacturing). In FY2022, we undertook a gap analysis to 
identify the reporting areas we need to progress to fully align to the 
framework and are targeting alignment during FY2023.

In FY2022, we committed to ambitious Net Zero targets that 
align Smiths with the UN’s critical global climate objectives: 
Net Zero emissions from our operations (Scope 1 & 2) by 2040 
and Net Zero emissions from our supply chain and products 
in use (Scope 3) by 2050. 

Performance in current three-year goal period

Use of renewable electricity1,2
Normalised greenhouse gas emissions3,4
Normalised non-recyclable waste2,3
Normalised water use in stressed areas (11 locations)2,3
Water reduction projects
Packaging reduction projects

1  Non-GHG producing electric sources including hydroelectric and nuclear.

2  Sites reporting utility data under Smiths HSE Reporting Policy, with 20 or more employees

3  Normalised to revenue. Absolute GHG emissions down 1.1%.

4  We have built a more aggressive GHG reduction target trajectory to meet our SBTs and an energy efficiency target into our colleague and executive incentive plans for FY2023.

Energy use and GHG (Scope 1 & 2) emissions

Global energy use – absolute values
UK energy use
Smiths Medical2
Smiths Medical UK2
Global emissions – absolute values
Scope 1 (direct emissions)
Scope 2 (indirect emissions)
Total
UK Scope 1 & 2 emissions
Smiths Medical Scope 1 & 2 emissions2
Smiths Medical UK Scope 1 & 2 emissions2
Global emissions – normalised values
Scope 1 (direct emissions)
Scope 2 (indirect emissions)
Total

KWh
KWh
KWh
KWh

t CO2e
t CO2e
t CO2e
t CO2e
t CO2e
t CO2e

t CO2e/£m revenue
t CO2e/£m revenue
t CO2e/£m revenue

FY2022
224,334,020

10,445,900
27,463,800
461,800

FY20211
224,394,230

n/a
75,006,500
n/a

19,131
32,539
51,670

1,755
6,176
7

7.46
12.68
20.14

20,378
31,865
52,243

n/a
16,740
n/a

8.47
13.24
21.71

1 

 FY2021 data updated following verification. See basis of preparation paragraph on page 29. 

2  Smiths Medical FY2021 and FY2022 data is not included in Group data and has not been updated for the changes described above.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
Energy efficiency and renewable electricity
Accelerating projects that reduce overall energy use and increase 
our use of electricity from renewable sources will be critical to our 
success in achieving our Scope 1 & 2 targets. 

In FY2022, we established a Group-wide Energy Team to prioritise, 
coordinate and ensure delivery of the projects necessary to 
meet our Net Zero and SBT commitments, including energy 
efficiency, onsite renewable energy (e.g., solar), and procuring 
renewable energy. The Energy Team will play a critical role in 
identifying, aggregating, supporting and tracking projects as we 
move forward.

63% of the electricity currently used in our operations is from 
renewable sources (sites reporting utility data under Smiths HSE 
Reporting Policy, with 20 or more employees) and our goal is to 
increase this to 66% by the end of FY2024 and to 100% by 2040. 
We undertook a global survey of onsite renewable opportunities in 
FY2021 and have been evaluating a range of technologies including 
solar, wind, low-carbon heating and cooling (LCHC), and combined 
heat and power (CHP). An onsite renewable energy system is 
already in place in Suzhou, China and we have recently completed 
a solar installation at Smiths Detection, Johor Bahru, Malaysia.  

Environmental management
Performance against our comprehensive portfolio of 
environmental policies is overseen by our internal audit process 
and we maintain an external environmental compliance audit 
programme of approximately 15 sites every year. All Smiths 
operational sites with over 50 colleagues are required under 
Group policy to be certified under ISO environmental and safety 
standards (18001 or 45001 and 14001) – approximately 60 sites 
– unless they were recently acquired just before or during the 
COVID-19 pandemic. Those sites were not allowed third party 
visitors during the pandemic and are now working towards 
certification as local conditions allow. We had no environmental 
spills or environmental compliance penalties or fines in FY2022.

Restricted substances
All divisions participate in a regular forum to share best 
practices and ensure compliance with global restricted 
substance regulations including WEEE, RoHS, Prop65, REACH, 
TSCA and Responsible Minerals. We operate a Restricted 
Substance Steering Committee to ensure that we are 
adequately resourced in this area.

31

SOCIAL

Safety
We have an extensive set of health and safety policies and procedures 
that all operations are required to follow. Performance against these 
policies is overseen by an audit process that also covers all Smiths 
production facilities including ISO HSE management systems. 

We report all injuries globally in accordance with US OSHA guidance. 
Our headline safety metrics are Recordable Incident Rate (RIR) – 
where incidents require medical attention beyond first aid – and 
Lost Time Incident Rate (LTIR) – where a colleague is unable to work 
following an incident – per 100 colleagues, per year across Smiths. 

In addition to preparing injury reduction plans, each of our divisions 
is required to set completion targets for the Safety Leading 
Indicator (SLI) proactive and preventative safety measures most 
relevant to their operations, with an expectation of achieving 95% of 
target annually. SLIs include activities such as safety inspections, 
leadership tours, training, and our safety look out peer-to-peer 
observation programme.

Our Group Recordable Incident Rate in FY2022 was 0.54; 15% 
above FY2021 but continued to track below the industry average 
and in the top quartile of industry performance1. Our Group Lost 
Time Incident Rate was 0.24.

While our focus on safety did not waver during FY2022, like many 
companies, we faced several challenges that likely affected our 
safety performance. Evidence indicates that these increased injury 
rates have been broadly experienced across the industrial sector 
more recently. Staffing and supply chain challenges during and 
following the COVID-19 pandemic have meant that at some Smiths 
sites colleagues have had to work irregular or extended hours. 
Nearly 3,000 colleagues reported having COVID-19 during the year; 
returning to work and suffering the after-effects of COVID-19 is 
challenging. We have seen the further impact of limited face to face 
interaction; safety committees unable to meet; limits on travel; and 
the general impact of people dealing with the upheaval of COVID-19.

This performance does not reflect the work environment we wish 
to have, and we intend to improve safety performance consistently 
year on year by continuing to invest in new programmes, training 
activities and site-specific injury reduction plans.

During FY2022 Smiths recorded zero work-related colleague or 
contractor fatalities. Three contractor recordable incidents were 
reported. We received no significant safety fines or penalties. 
Including Smiths Medical, we achieved an RIR of 0.50 and an LTIR 
of 0.21. The nature of work in the Smiths Medical operations meant 
that the division previously had a positive impact on injury rates.

1  BLS data – NAICS 339900; https://www.bls.gov/iif/oshsum.htm#20Quartile_Data

RECORDABLE INCIDENT RATE
Per 100 colleagues 

0.54

FY2021: 0.47

FY2022

FY2021

FY2020

FY2019

FY2018

LOST TIME INCIDENT RATE
Per 100 colleagues 

0.24

FY2021: 0.20

0.54

FY2022

0.47

FY2021

0.35

FY2020

0.50

FY2019

0.44

FY2018

0.24

0.20

0.17

0.24

0.19

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS32

Developing talent
There are many opportunities for people to grow their careers at 
Smiths. Our more structured and diverse approach to succession 
planning following the talent reviews this year has enabled us to 
identify and develop high-potential individuals from a broader pool 
of diverse colleagues from all geographical regions, specialised 
skill sets and industry experience. Separately, appointments to our 
most senior roles are discussed at a monthly Talent Development 
Committee comprising all members of the Executive Committee. 
This year also saw the introduction of a new organisational metric 
to enable meaningful measurement of talent progression through 
the organisation. We will continue to invest in internal talent 
mobility as a significant source of value for Smiths.

While our divisions serve different markets, there is much 
common ground in the qualities and skill sets required in our 
technical teams as they enable us to deliver efficiently and create 
new products for the future. We see opportunities to leverage 
this common ground more effectively by creating formal Group-
wide technical communities where groups of specialists can 
connect, share problems and ideas, and contribute to delivery of 
our strategy – for example energy reduction projects. We plan to 
introduce a common technical career ladder across the Group 
that will provide career visibility for individuals and enhance 
internal talent mobility. 

Reward and recognition
Recognising and rewarding colleagues in a fair, open and 
meaningful way is an important underpin to developing talent. 
We are committed to fair pay practices and ensuring that 
colleagues participate in our success.

We have been an accredited Living Wage employer in the 
UK since 2018.

In the UK, we operate an all-employee Sharesave Scheme, 
which enables colleagues to buy Smiths shares at a discounted 
rate. We have also been undertaking a process to align employee 
benefits across markets, so they are the same for colleagues in 
any of our four divisions or Group. We have completed this work in 
China, India and Mexico to date.

The Board is conscious of the challenging impact of current 
inflationary pressures on colleagues and this is reflected in the 
management decision to focus more of the salary increase budget 
on those who are more significantly affected in the coming year.

COVID-19
Safety precautions relating to COVID-19 have been an important 
feature of our overall safety efforts over the last 30 months. 
While many restrictions have now been lifted, we continue to 
monitor the situation, and each of our locations continues to 
comply with local requirements as infection rates fluctuate. 

Practical measures to support our colleagues across the period 
have included:

–  An unwavering focus on COVID-safe work environments
–  Pursuing a consistent approach to core employee benefits including 

life cover, critical illness, disability, and medical insurance

–  Rolling out a global Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
–  Regular communication, bespoke resource sites and 

wellness materials

As a Group, we are honoured by the incredible efforts made 
by our teams in supporting their own safety and the safety of 
others, including in our communities, while continuing to serve 
our customers across this extended period. Our data indicates 
that colleague COVID-19 cases have typically tracked local 
community cases and that there have been very few instances 
of transmission at work. 

Engaging with our colleagues
Our global communications activities are designed to engage 
colleagues around the world with our Purpose and our strategy. 
Key communications materials are translated into our ten 
core languages.

Our Smiths Now app is a platform for colleagues to receive news 
from around the business and share their views and stories and 
is always active with grassroots content. There is also a global 
fortnightly e-newsletter, Signal, which amplifies key company 
news to the global business. Our intranet web portal acts as an 
online hub for holding resources for many areas including safety, 
well-being, ethics and compliance, diversity and inclusion, and 
IT tips.

We undertook our My Say colleague engagement survey in 
November 2021 and May 2022 and communicated the key 
outcomes to colleagues.

We undertook a number of engagement projects in 
FY2022 including:

–  Communications around our results announcements 

and Capital Markets event;

–  Communications around our SES Awards and My Say surveys;
–  A global Town Hall in May 2022;
–  Our Smiths Day celebration of Smiths culture in June 2022. 

Members of the Executive Committee shared video messages 
and visited sites around the world to share Smiths Day 
with colleagues;

–  Global leadership summits for our Senior Leadership team in 

November 2021, February 2022 and July 2022 with the next one 
planned for November 2022; and

–  An online presentation and Q&A about pay and the work of the 
Remuneration (now the Remuneration & People) Committee 
hosted by Committee Chair Bill Seeger.

Members of our Executive Committee and Board have also visited 
a range of Smiths sites during the year. Read more on page 60.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
33

GENDER DIVERSITY IN THE GROUP

Diversity, equity and inclusion
We provide equal employment opportunities. We recruit, support 
and promote our people based on their qualifications, skills, 
aptitude and attitude. In employment-related decisions, we comply 
with all applicable anti-discrimination requirements in the 
relevant jurisdictions. We have zero tolerance for discrimination, 
harassment or retaliation.

People with disabilities are given full consideration for 
employment and subsequent training (including re-training, 
if needed, for people who have become disabled), career 
development and promotion based on their aptitude and ability. 
We endeavour to find roles for those who are unable to continue 
in their existing job because of disability. 

We are focused on proactively increasing the number of women in 
leadership roles at Smiths, as well as understanding the 
challenges and barriers that may be impeding them from fulfilling 
their potential. We have some way to go, which is why it is one 
of our ESG strategic priorities.

We have five female members of the Smiths Board (45%), 
and we welcomed three new female members to our Executive 
Committee in FY2022 (31% women). Women make up 28% of 
our global colleague population, but only 24% of our 656 senior 
leaders. We are working to change this with a programme 
of activities designed to identify, support and advance the 
careers of the high-potential women we already have at Smiths. 
Our target is to reach 27% by the end of FY2023 and 30% by 
the end of FY2024.

The opportunity to improve in the diversity, equity and 
inclusion area has been recognised and prioritised in our 
People strategy. Besides clearly articulated diversity metrics 
and objectives, in FY2023 we will also introduce our revised 
people leader development programme, which is fully aligned 
to our Smiths Leadership Behaviours. One entire learning 
module in the programme will be focused on emotional 
and cultural intelligence, conscious inclusion, and the role 
of leaders in setting and leading diverse teams. In addition, 
every division has introduced its own diversity and inclusion 
priorities, often supported by dedicated individuals, and 
including underrepresented group networks, education, 
communication and other support activities.

Communities
Our direct economic contribution to communities and society 
was £2.33bn in FY2022.

Employee costs
Supplier costs
Tax paid

Total

FY2022

£823m
£1,364m
£140m

£2.33bn

1  Senior Leadership Team is the KPI used to track gender diversity at Smiths. It is 

defined as all colleagues that are Grade 14 or above. Data for Grade 14 and above 
plus Directors of subsidiary companies, in line with the definition in the Companies 
Act 2006 (Strategic Report and Directors’ Report) Regulations 2013 is Female: 171 
and Male: 561.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Male6 (55%) Female5 (45%)  EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Male9 (69%) Female4 (31%)  SENIOR LEADERSHIP TEAM1 Male498 (76%) Female158 (24%)  TOTAL COLLEAGUES Male10,631 (72%) Female4,133 (28%)  01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
34

Anti-bribery and anti-corruption
Bribery and corruption matters are covered by our Code of 
Business Ethics. We also have specific policies and procedures 
relating to activities that create bribery and corruption risks, and 
an umbrella anti-bribery and anti-corruption policy that provides 
a single view of our approach. These policies cover a broad range 
of matters including the giving and receiving of gifts, meals, and 
hospitality; invitations to government officials; our approach to 
facilitation payments; and controls around the appointment of 
distributors and agents, customs brokers, and freight forwarders. 
Our ethics dashboard enables us to interrogate our register of 
gifts, meals and entertainment in an effective and useful way. 

GOVERNANCE

Human rights
We consider violations of human rights to be appalling crimes. 
Conduct that exploits workers or denies them the rights and 
benefits to which they are legally entitled is wholly inconsistent 
with our Values and policies and is not tolerated. We recognise the 
important responsibility we have, and we support the vision of a 
world where everyone can enjoy their universal human rights. 

Our Human Rights Policy is guided by the international human 
rights principles encompassed in the Universal Declaration 
of Human Rights, the International Labour Organization’s 
Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, and 
the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human 
Rights. We adhere to national law and regulations in each market 
in which we operate and, should we encounter conflict between 
internationally recognised human rights and national laws, we will 
seek ways to honour the principles of international human rights. 
All persons working for, or on behalf of, Smiths are required to 
adhere to our Policy and approach.

Our Responsible Minerals Sourcing Policy addresses our 
commitment to the sourcing of minerals in an ethical and 
sustainable manner that safeguards human rights and aims to 
ensure that tin, tungsten, tantalum, gold and cobalt are sourced 
with due respect for human rights and in a manner that does not 
finance armed groups. To achieve this objective, we take guidance 
from the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply 
Chains of Minerals from Conflict-Affected and High-Risk Areas.

We expect those with whom we have a business relationship – 
suppliers, contractors, subcontractors, and anyone else in our 
supply chains, including any recruitment agents or other providers 
of labour (temporary or otherwise) – to share our commitment to 
human rights and to be free from practices associated with human 
rights violations, including forced/involuntary labour or modern 
slavery. We take very seriously any allegations that human rights 
are not properly respected.

We have not identified any serious human rights issues in our 
operations or in those of our suppliers in FY2022.

The Smiths Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement 
FY2022 can be found on the Smiths corporate website 
www.smiths.com

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSTASK FORCE 
ON CLIMATE-
RELATED 
FINANCIAL 
DISCLOSURES

The Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures 
(TCFD) helps to improve transparency on climate-related 
risks and opportunities by providing an internationally 
recognised framework to guide companies in making 
more effective climate-related financial disclosures.

Over the last three years we have demonstrated our continued 
commitment to aligning with the recommendations of the TCFD 
through expanding and updating our assessment of climate-
related risks and opportunities. This ongoing systematic 
assessment has allowed us to identify the potential risks and 
opportunities that climate change presents to our business, 
enabling us to better prepare for an uncertain future and ensure 
that our business strategy is resilient to future changes.

Mitigating our risks and realising our opportunities
Our diversified portfolio, responsiveness to new market 
requirements and geographic spread of assets mean that 
our business is well prepared to respond to climate risks 
in the short term.

However, the future is uncertain, so in FY2022 we have and will 
continue to take action to strengthen our longer-term climate 
resilience, implementing measures to reduce our exposure to the 
potential climate risks we have identified and ensuring that Smiths 
is best positioned to realise our opportunities. For example:

Climate-resilient assets: John Crane has undertaken analysis to 
identify facilities vulnerable to the effects of climate change and 
has put in place monitoring and mitigation measures to account 
for extreme weather. For example, one site has been relocated 
as a result of recent insurance claims caused by flooding issues. 
John Crane has also considered the risk of extreme weather 
during site selection of new facilities, including consideration 
of hurricane paths and proximity to flood plains.

Mitigating supply chain risks: Across all the divisions, single 
source materials are avoided wherever possible and instead, 
an approach of sourcing from multiples sites in multiple 
locations across the globe is taken. This increases resilience 
of the supply chain against regional disruption caused by 
extreme weather events.

35

Keeping costs down: To mitigate the risks associated with rising 
resource costs, the Procurement team has evaluated Smiths 
Detection’s supply chain and transportation processes for 
efficiency improvements. This included implementing measures 
such as optimisation of space in freight through reusable stacking 
solutions and exploring localised business models to reduce 
product transportation distances.

Strengthening oversight and ownership: Our newly formed 
Science, Sustainability & Excellence (SSE) Committee of 
the Board, chaired by Dame Ann Dowling, is responsible for 
overseeing the Group’s approach to science, sustainability, 
and excellence. The oversight covers R&D, commercialisation 
and sustainability strategies, including the impact of climate 
change and related metrics and targets. We also appointed a Chief 
Sustainability Officer to the Executive Committee.

The SSE oversees the following: 
–  Prioritising new product development programmes whose 

commercial success will deliver revenue growth and 
corresponding sustainability performance benefits to and 
through our customers. This includes energy efficiency, GHG 
reductions and renewable energy production and use.

–  Delivering Net Zero GHG emission commitments for Scopes 1, 2 
and 3 and associated SBTs through energy efficiency, renewable 
energy, and optimising product design and our supply chains. 

TCFD recommended disclosures
At the time of publication of this Annual Report, the Group has 
made climate-related financial disclosures consistent with the 
TCFD’s recommendations and Recommended Disclosures 
pursuant to Listing Rule 9.8.6 (R) (8). The following table 
summarises our disclosures and refers to where further detail 
on climate-related financial disclosures can be found in this 
Annual Report. 

In completing this work the Group made use of TCFD guidance 
material including the TCFD technical supplement on the use 
of scenario analysis, TCFD Guidance on Metrics, Targets, and 
Transition Plans, and the TCFD Guidance for All Sectors.

The Group is continuing to make progress across all four pillars of 
the recommendations and is working to further align and be more 
transparent in its disclosures in line with the evolving guidelines to 
better communicate the work that is being done internally.

In FY2023 we intend to undertake a materiality assessment to 
demonstrate that Smiths has considered the most important 
topics in ESG, including climate risk and opportunities.

We are also developing a Group-wide strategic response to 
energy transition in relation to our own targets, the implications 
on current customers and end use markets, and opportunities 
for Smiths. 

In FY2023 we intend to prepare and publish a detailed, standalone 
TCFD document to enhance our disclosures to cover these 
matters and take account of progress.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS36

GOVERNANCE 

Disclose Smiths governance 
around climate-related risks 
and opportunities.

a.   Describe the Board’s oversight of climate-related risks and opportunities.
The Board oversees the Group’s approach to sustainability, including climate change. The Board has 
oversight of our Group and divisional strategies, receiving regular updates on performance and deep 
dives into divisional strategy on a rotational basis. Climate change opportunities are integrated into 
our strategic planning processes, including our ESG framework and ESG strategic priorities. The SSE 
Committee of the Board is responsible for overseeing the Group’s approach to science, sustainability 
and excellence. The oversight covers R&D, commercialisation and sustainability strategy, including 
the impact of climate change and related metrics and targets. The Audit & Risk Committee of the 
Board is responsible for reviewing and assessing the effectiveness of risk management, including 
climate risk in the business. The results of our annual assessment of climate change risks and 
opportunities are reported to the Audit & Risk Committee.

–  See Board governance model page 57
–  See ESG governance and oversight model page 29
–  See Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) process page 46 
–  See Board activity page 60
–  See SSE Committee Report page 89
–  See our ESG framework page 24
–  See our ESG strategic priorities page 27
–  See Stakeholders and S172 Statement page 41

b.   Describe management’s role in assessing and managing climate-related risks  

and opportunities

The Executive Committee is responsible for the Group’s approach to sustainability, including climate 
change. Climate-related risk is reported and managed in the same way as other risks in the business. 
Over and above this, the results of our annual assessment of climate change risk and opportunities are 
reported to the Executive Committee and integrated into our strategic planning processes, including 
our ESG strategic priorities. Our Group and divisional strategic review and planning processes consider 
and respond to climate-related opportunities as part of our divisional strategic planning processes and 
our ESG framework and ESG strategic priorities. To align decision-making and ownership of our ESG 
goals, sustainability metrics form part of the Smiths annual and long-term incentive plans.

–  See Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) process page 46 
–  See ESG governance and oversight model page 29
–  See our ESG framework page 24
–  See our ESG strategic priorities page 27 
–  See Our business model page 9
–  See Our strategy and megatrends page 10
–  See Remuneration & People Committee Report page 75

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
STRATEGY 

Disclose the actual 
and potential impacts of 
climate-related risks and 
opportunities on the Group’s 
business, strategy and 
financial planning, where 
such information is material.

37

a.   Describe the climate-related risks and opportunities the organisation has identified 

over the short, medium and long term.

We conduct a systematic assessment on an annual basis to identify physical and transition risks 
and opportunities over the short, medium and long term. Further, our Purpose and commitment 
to sustainability leadership are reflected in our intent to prioritise ESG performance at Smiths. 
We therefore place additional emphasis on our response to megatrends in our sectors which relate to 
the energy transition agenda and overall reduction of waste and energy use.

–  See this year’s reporting on Key transition risks and opportunities and Key physical risks 

and opportunities page 40

–  See Mitigating our risks and realising our opportunities page 35
–  See Our business model page 9
–  See Our strategy and megatrends page 10

b.   Describe the impact of climate-related risks and opportunities on the organisation’s 

businesses, strategy and financial planning.

We incorporate the climate-related risks and opportunities we identify into our business planning 
and strategy development processes at both the division and Group-level, including our ESG 
framework and strategic priorities. To align decision-making and ownership of our ESG goals, 
sustainability metrics form part of the Smiths annual and long-term incentive plans.

–  See Mitigating our risks and realising our opportunities on page 35
–  See our ESG framework page 24
–  See our ESG strategic priorities page 27
–  See Environment performance page 30
–  See Our strategy and megatrends page 10
–  See Chief Executive Officer’s review of the year page 11
–  See Remuneration & People Committee Report page 75

c.   Describe the resilience of the organisation’s strategy. Taking into consideration 

different climate-related scenarios, including a 2°C or lower scenario.

The scenarios we use to assess the resilience of our business always include consideration of a 2°C 
or lower scenario. This year we have expanded the range of scenarios we assess ourselves against 
and have disclosed our ratings of the resilience of our business against our identified potential 
risks. Whilst climate risk is not considered a principal risk for Smiths, failure to meet stakeholder 
expectations on ESG obligations is considered a principal risk. This is addressed through Group 
strategy and our ESG strategic priorities. 

–  See Scenario analysis – building upon previous work on page 39
–  See Key transition risks and opportunities and Key physical risks and opportunities page 40
–  See Principal risks page 49
–  See our ESG strategic priorities page 27

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
RISK MANAGEMENT 

Disclose how Smiths identifies, 
assesses and manages 
climate-related risks.

METRICS AND 
TARGETS 

Disclose the metrics 
and targets used to 
assess and manage relevant 
climate-related risks and 
opportunities, where such 
information is material.

38

a.   Describe the organisation’s processes for identifying and assessing  

climate-related risks.

Climate-related risk is reported and managed in the same way as other risks in the business. 
Over and above this, we conduct a systematic scenario analysis exercise on an annual basis to 
identify and assess climate-related risks and opportunities. This uses the following staged process: 
i. Understand revenue streams as base case; ii. Climate scenario analysis – high-level risk and 
opportunity mapping conducted over two physical and two transition climate scenarios over two 
time horizons (medium- and long-term); iii. Integrated financial impact assessments – risks and 
opportunities identified to uncover the financial drivers that will inform and shape future investment; 
and iv. Testing and validation – workshops conducted at Group and divisional level to refine the risk 
and opportunity mapping by reviewing potential materiality over time, identify potential mitigation 
measures to inform strategy, and refine metrics and targets.

–  See ERM process page 46 
–  See this year’s approach in Scenario analysis - building upon previous work on page 39

b.  Describe the organisation’s processes for managing climate-related risks
Climate-related risk is reported and managed in the same way as other risks in the business. As part 
of our annual scenario analysis exercise, we also identify key actions to mitigate potential climate-
related risks and to realise our identified opportunities. See staged process described above.

–  See ERM process on page 46 
–  See Mitigating our risks and realising our opportunities on page 35

c.   Describe how processes for identifying, assessing, and managing climate-related risks 

are integrated into the organisation’s overall risk management.
We incorporate the climate-related risks we identify into our ERM process.

–  See Mitigating our risks and realising our opportunities on page 35
–  See ERM process on page 46

a.   Disclose the metrics used by the organisation to assess climate-related risks and 

opportunities in line with its strategy and risk management processes.

We report against our environmental metrics annually. This year we have also undertaken a gap 
analysis of our metrics and targets to identify key areas where we can improve our monitoring of 
climate-related performance. We have built a more aggressive GHG reduction target trajectory to 
meet Science-Based Targets and energy efficiency and new product commercialisation targets into 
our incentive arrangements for FY2023. 
Our climate-related metrics and targets now include: 

 – Total energy use 
 – Energy efficiency target, and new product commercialisation revenue target per programme, 

both linked to remuneration for FY2023 AIP

 – Scope 1 & 2 emissions absolute reduction target linked to remuneration for FY2023 LTIP
 – Scope 1 & 2 emissions normalised to revenue target linked to remuneration for FY2022 LTIP

–  See Environment performance on page 30
–  See Remuneration & People Committee Report on page 75

b.   Disclose Scope 1, Scope 2 and, if appropriate, Scope 3 GHG emissions,  

and the related risks.

We disclose our Scope 1 and 2 emissions annually. We have created a baseline inventory of our Scope 
3 emissions which will be validated before being submitted to the SBTi in FY2023.

–  See Energy use and GHG (Scope 1 & 2) emissions on page 30
–  See Scope 3 information on page 30
–  See Environment performance on page 30

c.   Describe the targets used by the organisation to manage climate-related risks and 

opportunities and performance against targets.

We report on our progress against our environmental targets annually. This year we have also 
undertaken a gap analysis to identify key additional metrics and targets which could improve 
monitoring of our climate-related performance. See metrics and targets described above.

–  See Environment performance on page 30

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS39

Scenario analysis – building upon previous work
During FY2021, climate-related physical and transition risks and 
opportunities were assessed under two climate scenarios and 
time periods, and the actions that could be taken to mitigate risks 
and capture opportunities were incorporated into our strategic 
planning processes. 

Our most recent scenario analysis exercise, conducted in Q3 
FY2022, builds upon the assessment of previous years, and seeks 
to provide a more in-depth understanding and comparison of 
physical and transition risks and opportunities. A wider range 
of scenarios was considered, including two transition scenarios 
and two physical risk scenarios.

Physical scenarios
For the physical scenarios, the Intergovernmental Panel on 
Climate Change’s (IPCC) Representative Concentration Pathway 
(RCP) 4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios were used.

RCP4.5
–  RCP4.5 represents an intermediate emissions scenario whereby 

climate policies are implemented to limit GHG emissions. 
–  In the 2040s, global mean surface temperature is projected 

to increase by 1.1°C. By the 2080s, this reaches 1.4°C.

RCP8.5
–  RCP8.5 is a high-emissions scenario and represents a future 

where levels of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions continue to rise 
throughout the 21st century with minimal policy intervention. 
As such, GHG emissions were assumed to continue to increase 
throughout the century, without significant interventions. 
–  In the 2040s, global mean surface temperature is projected 

to increase by 1.8°C. By the 2080s, this reaches 3.7°C.

Across both scenarios:
–  Some regions will experience increased annual rainfall, 
whilst other regions will receive less annual rainfall.
–  Regions are likely to experience seasonal differences in 

temperature and precipitation patterns. For example, annual 
precipitation in the UK is projected to increase but this is due 
to projected wetter winters, increasing the risk of flooding; in 
contrast, summers are projected to become drier, increasing 
the risk of drought.

Transition scenarios
For the transition scenarios, the International Energy Agency’s 
(IEA) World Energy Outlook Sustainable Development Scenario 
(SDS) and Stated Policies Scenario (STEPS) were used.

2021 Stated Policies Scenario (STEPS)
–  This scenario reflects current policy-setting based on sector-
by-sector assessment of the specific policies in place, as well 
as those that have been announced by governments around 
the world.

–  It aims to provide a benchmark to assess the potential 

achievements (and limitations) of recent developments in energy 
and climate policy:
 – Risks to oil security remain
 – Gas markets are changing rapidly
 – Electricity moves to the heart of modern energy security

2021 Sustainable Development Scenario (SDS)
–  The assumptions on public health and the economy are the 

same as in the STEPS

–  Full alignment with the Paris Agreement to hold the rise in 

global average temperature to “well below 2 °C … and pursuing 
efforts to limit (rises) to 1.5 °C”

–  It works backwards from the achievement of sustainable energy-

related goals – universal access to affordable, reliable and 
modern energy services by 2030, a substantial reduction in air 
pollution, and effective action to combat climate change – and  
shows what would be required to meet them
 – Major transformation of the global energy system
 – Net Zero by 2070
 – Surge in clean energy policies (promotion of hydrogen, biogas, 

biomethane and Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage 
(CCUS) across sectors)

 – Staggered introduction of CO2 prices 
 – Fossil fuel subsidies phased out by 2025 in net-importing 

countries and by 2035 in net-exporting countries

As well as assessing risks and opportunities under a greater 
number of scenarios, this year’s assessment included detailed 
engagement with each of the four divisions to enable a ‘deep dive’ 
into issues specific to each and to better understand the Group-
level implications of these risks and opportunities. 

–  Extreme weather events such as flooding, wildfires and drought 

are likely to become more severe and more frequent. 

–  The difference between the two scenarios is particularly evident 

In addition, we have assessed the level of each risk and 
opportunity in more detail to better understand the potential 
financial impacts of the identified risks and opportunities. 

in the projections towards the end of the century, which are 
much more extreme under RCP8.5. 

Although a quantitative assessment was not undertaken, risk and 
opportunity ratings were defined in line with the Group and division 
level risk registers to allow a better understanding of the scale 
of identified risks and opportunities, enabling Smiths to prioritise 
actions for risk mitigation. 

These additional activities allow us to better understand the 
nuanced nature of risks and opportunities posed across our 
business, at Group and division level, under a wider range of future 
scenarios. This ultimately enables us to improve our resilience, 
by addressing risks across our portfolio and ensuring that 
opportunities are incorporated within our business strategy.

Priority risks and opportunities are summarised in the tables 
below across the range of scenarios. 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS40

Key physical risks and opportunities

Over the medium and longer term, key physical risks relate to the potential effect that projected increases in the frequency and severity 
of extreme weather events could have on our assets and supply chain. These risks become more severe under the high-emissions 
RCP8.5 scenario. 

However, we have also identified several opportunities where each of our divisions can work to develop innovative solutions to our 
customers’ climate-related challenges.

Risks

Damage to Group assets from extreme weather events: Increased costs and resulting 
revenue losses due to repair and insurance costs. 

Temperature regulation requirements during heatwaves and cold snaps: Health and 
safety risks from overheating, higher operating costs from increased air conditioning 
and heating. Capital costs associated with retrofitting assets to provide sufficient 
temperature controls.

Damage to key supply chain assets from extreme weather events: Loss of revenue due 
to disruption/delay of manufacturing processes.

Disruption to transportation and distribution networks from extreme weather events: 
Loss of revenue due to delays getting products to market, caused by supply chain 
disruption. 

Opportunities

RCP4.5 physical scenario

RCP8.5 physical scenario

2040s
medium term

2080s
long term

2040s
medium term

2080s
long term

Level of risk categories: Very Low – Low – Moderate – High – Very High

Low

Moderate

Low

Low

Low

Low

Moderate

High

Moderate

Moderate

High

Moderate

High

Low

High

High

Growth in remote sensing market: Increased revenue from growth in demand 
for satellite technology for environmental monitoring and tracking.

Increased demand for cooling systems: Increased revenue from increased demand for 
residential and domestic cooling systems, driven by ongoing variation in global temperatures.

Moderate

High

Moderate

Very High

Low

Moderate

Moderate

Moderate

Key transition risks and opportunities
Key transition risks identified over the next 30 years primarily result from increasing costs associated with the price and availability of 
resources and compliance with increased reporting requirements, although increased competition also poses a risk.

New and emerging markets present us with significant opportunities for growth, with demand for energy efficient products and services 
increasing greatly as we transition to a lower carbon global economy. 

Risks

Increased regulations and pricing on GHG emissions: Greater costs associated with 
emissions reduction, monitoring and reporting obligations.

Increased transportation costs: Greater fuel costs due to increased pricing on GHG 
emissions.

Cost and availability of resources: Increased price and reduced availability of critical raw 
materials. Limited supply of materials and components could lead to price volatility and 
production constraints.

New and emerging competitors: Reduced accessible market due to increased 
competition in Net Zero/energy efficiency spaces, such as methane leakage. 

Opportunities

Growth in aviation/aerospace energy efficiency market: Increased revenue from 
development of new products for aviation/aerospace, such as energy efficiency detection 
products and solutions.

Growth in energy efficiency products market: Increased revenue from Smiths efficiency 
products and services, particularly methane detection and remediation. Increased 
investment for new technologies e.g., carbon capture, utlisation and storage (CCUS) and 
hydrogen.

Growth in power industry energy efficiency: Increased revenue from development of 
emerging low-carbon emission technologies to reduce electricity transmission losses.

STEPS transition scenario

SDS transition scenario

2030 
medium term

2050
long term

2030
medium term

2050
long term

Low

Moderate

Moderate

Moderate

Moderate

Moderate

Moderate

High

Moderate

Moderate

Moderate

Moderate

Moderate

Low

High

Low

Moderate

High

High

Very High

High

Moderate

Very High

Moderate

High

Very High

High

Moderate

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSTAKEHOLDERS 
AND SECTION 172 
STATEMENT

Understanding the needs and priorities of our key 
stakeholders and building strong and positive relationships 
is critical to our success. Stakeholder engagement takes 
place across the Group, operationally by our divisional 
teams and management, at Group level, and by the Board. 

In a business as diversified as Smiths, engagement with most 
stakeholder groups is handled locally by management, or by 
specialist Group teams. The Board maintains oversight and 
only engages directly if there are issues which truly warrant its 
involvement or where it can add value. This is particularly true of 
engagement with customers and suppliers (the majority of whom 
are unique to a specific division) but is also usually the case for 
governments, regulators and our local communities. 

41

The outcomes of stakeholder engagement, including concerns 
raised, are reported to the Board and Board Committees on a 
regular basis through our usual processes that support informed 
decision-making. Discussion and decision-making by the Board 
takes the views of key stakeholders into account, in order to balance 
their needs, and effectively build the sustainable, long-term success 
of the Group.

During the year ended 31 July 2022, the Board has acted in 
accordance with Section 172(1) of the Companies Act 2006 with 
each Director acting in the way they consider, in good faith, would 
be most likely to promote the success of the Company for the 
benefit of its members as a whole. In doing so, the Directors had 
regard to the interests of other stakeholders, whilst maintaining 
and overseeing high standards of business conduct. Our approach 
to key stakeholders and stakeholder considerations that influenced 
Board discussions and the outcomes of these discussions are 
outlined below.

Further examples of how stakeholders views have been brought into 
the boardroom can be found in our Governance Report on pages 60 
and 61.

P 60

READ MORE  
Governance

SEE MORE  
Sustainability at Smiths Report

PEOPLE

OUR APPROACH
Our people are vital to the success 
of Smiths.

We aim to attract and retain the very best 
by creating an environment for colleagues 
based on respect, personal growth, 
recognition and development of talent, 
and a sense of belonging and purpose. 

Our culture is a powerful asset and 
empowers and enables our people to 
deliver our Purpose. It is supported by our 
Values and our Leadership Behaviours 
which influence every decision, guide 
how we behave, and help make Smiths 
a place where people are happy and 
proud to work. 

KEY PEOPLE PRIORITIES
–  Health, safety and well-being
–  Purpose and culture
–  Ethical behaviour
–  Reward and recognition
–  Employee retention and engagement

–  Talent development
–  Diversity, equity and inclusion
–  Sustainability
–  Community contribution

BOARD AND MANAGEMENT ENGAGEMENT ACTIVITIES
–  Management engages with colleagues through regular town hall meetings, Company news 
updates and through our online tools where colleagues can share their views. See page 32 
for more information

–  Non-executive Directors undertake workforce engagement activities, including in-person 

site visits and attendance at colleague meetings, forums and events. See page 60 for 
more information

–  The Board and Remuneration & People Committee receive regular updates from the Chief 

People Officer on employee engagement, reward, talent, and diversity and inclusion
–  The Audit & Risk Committee is provided with updates on ‘Speak Out’, our confidential 

reporting hotline, and other reports and statistics relating to the Group’s ethical policies 
and performance

–  The Board receives health and safety reports at every Board meeting
–  The Board also receives regular updates on the Group’s pension arrangements

OUTCOMES OF ENGAGEMENT IN FY2022
–  Given the importance of, and focus on, People in the Smiths Value Engine, the Board 
approved the evolution of the Remuneration Committee into the Remuneration & 
People Committee

–  Based on feedback from colleagues through the My Say engagement survey, the Board 

was supportive of the launch of our new Smiths Leadership Behaviours, which are 
shown on page 28, and the focus on diversity and inclusion, with an enhanced gender 
diversity measure added as a KPI described on page 23

–  The Board supported the de-risking of the TI Group Pension Scheme by way of a £640m 
bulk annuity buy-in. The Board considered and declined the request from the SI Pension 
Scheme Trustees to pay enhanced member benefits

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
CUSTOMERS

OUR APPROACH
Meeting customer needs and exceeding 
their expectations with products, 
quality and service. The way we conduct 
business and pay attention to the things 
that matter to them – for example, ethics 
and environmental performance – is a 
fundamental part of our operating model 
and our Values. 

We recognise that strong and enduring 
customer relationships will sustain 
Smiths into the future.

42

KEY CUSTOMER PRIORITIES
–  Product innovation, quality and service
–  Environmental performance of products 

to help customers meet their own 
environmental goals

–  Long-term strategic relationships
–  Mutual confidence and respect
–  Ethical behaviour and data protection

BOARD AND MANAGEMENT ENGAGEMENT ACTIVITIES
–  Management teams engage with customers through formal feedback activities such 

as surveys, quarterly business reviews and senior team meetings with key customers. 
They also integrate informal feedback from conversations had with customers by our 
operational and field-based teams

–  Management teams use Key Account Management structures and Customer 

Relationship Management tools across our business to deliver timely and high-quality 
responses to our customers. We aim to apply best practices, develop skills and 
capabilities, and deliver continuous improvement in execution to enhance the overall 
customer experience

–  Customers and market challenges are considered as part of the monthly divisional 
performance updates to the Executive Committee with a deep dive every quarter

–  Divisional performance reports are sent to the Board on a quarterly basis and deep dives 

on divisional performance and strategy are held on a rotational basis

–  The Board monitors performance indicators relating to customer satisfaction such as 

On-Time-In-Full (OTIF) and Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ)

–  In FY2022 the Audit & Risk Committee was updated on product quality and customers 

in divisional risk deep dives. See page 73 for more information

OUTCOMES OF ENGAGEMENT IN FY2022
–  The Board approved the creation of the Science, Sustainability & Excellence (SSE) 
Committee. The Committee oversees the Group’s approach to sustainability and to 
new product development, both key priorities for our customers. See page 89 for 
more information

–  The Board approved our divisional strategies, including an increased focus on 

commercialising high-value green technologies that enable sustainability performance 
for and through our customers

–  As part of the Board evaluation, the Board requested greater visibility of macro 

conditions, external markets and the impact of opportunities arising from technology
–  The SSE Committee requested more oversight on product ideation strength and early-
stage new product development to ensure that the Group is appropriately focused on 
megatrends and new markets

–  The Board considered inflation and supply chain pressures and the impact on pricing 

and margins

–  The Board was satisfied that the culture of the Group is appropriately focused on 

customer needs and that customer risks are being managed appropriately

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS43

SUPPLIERS

OUR APPROACH
Developing mutually beneficial 
relationships with our suppliers and 
building resilience, quality and efficiency 
across our supply chain is a fundamental 
contributor to our customer offer and the 
long-term sustainability of Smiths. 

We operate a total value supply chain 
approach that considers all aspects of a 
supplier’s contribution to generate and 
capture value. This includes ethical and 
environmental matters, including GHG 
reduction, and alignment with our Values, 
continuous improvement and risk. 

COMMUNITIES 
AND SOCIETY

OUR APPROACH
We aim to improve our world by 
contributing positively to our communities 
and society in general. 

Smiths products and services support 
critical global industries where we are 
pioneering progress in safety, efficiency, 
and environmental performance. 

Our operations around the world play a 
beneficial role in local economies through 
job creation and skills development; 
procurement and generating tax revenues; 
operating safely, environmentally 
responsibly and ethically; and direct 
engagement. Healthy and prosperous 
communities and strong relationships are 
aligned with our Values and inspire and 
promote a sense of pride and ownership 
in our people.

KEY SUPPLIER PRIORITIES
–  Long-term relationships with Smiths
–  Mutual confidence and respect
–  Ethical behaviour

–  Return for all partners
–  Innovation partnerships

BOARD AND MANAGEMENT ENGAGEMENT ACTIVITIES
–  Management teams meet regularly with suppliers to review performance, 

discuss new business opportunities, set goals and work on improvement areas. For our 
higher value and/or more complex products, management engages with our suppliers 
at the highest level to partner on R&D, new product introduction, quality and continuous 
improvement projects

–  Updates on suppliers and supply chain are included in divisional performance updates 

to the Executive Committee 

–  Divisional performance reports are sent to the Board on a quarterly basis and 

deep dives on divisional performance and strategy are discussed by the Board on a 
rotational basis

–  In FY2022 the Audit & Risk Committee was updated on supply chain risk and ethics and 

compliance in each division

OUTCOMES OF ENGAGEMENT IN FY2022
–  Each division developed and implemented appropriate contingency plans to mitigate 

the impact of supply chain challenges arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia/
Ukraine conflict, transportation and labour issues, and other challenges

–  The Board was supportive of the ongoing project to mitigate the risk from high-

dependency sole source suppliers

–  Management approved the implementation of a source-to-pay solution with a single 
portal access for our supplier base which aims to improve procurement efficiency 
and effectiveness

–  The Board was supportive of the refreshing of the Group’s Supplier Code of Conduct 
during the year to increase focus on ESG matters, including environmental policies 
and performance

KEY COMMUNITY PRIORITIES
–  Safe and effective operations
–  Green technology, environmental 

performance, respecting 
natural resources

–  Fair employment, skills development, 

and prosperity
–  Ethical behaviour
–  Direct engagement – education 

and community support

BOARD AND MANAGEMENT ENGAGEMENT ACTIVITIES
–  Our teams across the world engage directly with their local communities through 

fundraising, charitable giving, and education initiatives

–  Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) education initiatives are particularly 

important to management and to our colleagues as a way to share their passion for 
engineering and encourage young people to consider careers in the sector. Many of our 
sites run STEM programmes

–  The Board is provided with updates on the elements of the Group’s operations which 

impact the wider community, including the Group’s Global Tax Strategy. This describes our 
approach to the responsible management of tax affairs to enhance long-term shareholder 
value while contributing to public expenditure and the welfare of our local communities
–  The Audit & Risk Committee receives regular reports on issues raised through the Group’s 
‘Speak Out’ reporting hotline which enables reporting of matters affecting communities 
such as safety, ethical behaviour, human rights and modern slavery

–  At our July Leadership Summit senior leaders took time out to volunteer at five 

London charities

–  Colleagues are regularly involved in and support local community events

OUTCOMES OF ENGAGEMENT IN FY2022
–  The Board approved the Group’s new ESG strategic priorities which outline our focus on 
new product development programmes which deliver sustainability performance and on 
delivering our environmental commitments

–  The Group donated to the Red Cross to support the people of Ukraine. Smiths also 

matched colleague donations

–  In FY2022 we began a pilot for a new community engagement programme – Improving 

Our World – which will include paid volunteering time for colleagues

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
GOVERNMENTS AND 
REGULATORS

OUR APPROACH
Governments and regulators are vital to 
our business as they are policy setters 
and influencers in the markets where 
we operate. We operate in some highly 
regulated markets and sectors requiring 
strict adherence to local and international 
industry and product regulations, and strong 
ethical practices.

We have a mature governance environment 
with exacting standards, robust diligence 
processes and a proactive management 
approach to reduce the likelihood of an 
ethical, legal or regulatory breach impacting 
our business. 

In the normal course of business, we 
build relationships with governments, 
policymakers and regulators across the 
world. We do this at both Group and at 
divisional level so that we are able to operate 
effectively and to ensure our interests and 
those of the industries in which we operate 
are represented in decision-making. We also 
contribute our expertise on emerging 
national, regional and global needs. 

INVESTORS

OUR APPROACH
We are committed to openness and 
transparency with all capital providers and 
to the effective management of risk. 

We report routinely to shareholders 
through our formal results activities and 
undertake regular meetings and one-off 
events such as Capital Markets Days and 
investor conferences. Third-party analyst 
and broker briefings also form part of our 
communications schedule.

Shareholders are directly consulted by the 
Board on such matters as Remuneration 
Policy and views are sought on key 
corporate activity. 

44

KEY GOVERNMENT AND REGULATOR PRIORITIES
–  Product and operational safety
–  Net Zero and environmental policies
–  Protection of natural resources
–  Defence and security
–  Safe and fair working conditions

–  Economic growth and prosperity
–  Trade compliance
–  Ethical behaviour
–  Privacy and data protection

BOARD AND MANAGEMENT ENGAGEMENT ACTIVITIES
–  Our Group Corporate Affairs team based in the UK, US, Europe and Asia guides and 

supports our relationships with key regulators, local policymakers, budget holders and 
industry groups. It also leads our outreach and relationship programme with government 
bodies and regulators, with the aim of promoting a deeper understanding of the Smiths 
culture and products

–  Government policy and regulators are considered during formulation of 

divisional strategies

–  Updates on regulatory processes for approval of new products are provided 

during divisional performance reviews at the Executive Committee

OUTCOMES OF ENGAGEMENT IN FY2022
–  Management approved policy guidelines and an operational framework within which 

government relations are conducted. The business sustains harmonious relations with 
the governments in the countries where we manufacture and operate and with the 
relevant regulatory authorities 

–  Policy guidance was issued to the business to navigate issues such as the COVID-19 

pandemic and the Russia/Ukraine conflict 

KEY INVESTOR PRIORITIES
–  Sustainable growth
–  Shareholder returns
–  Delivering against our strategy
–  Openness and transparency

–  Maintaining effective controls and 

managing risk

–  Environmental performance and 

social impact

BOARD AND MANAGEMENT ENGAGEMENT ACTIVITIES
–  The Board attends the AGM and General Meetings where shareholders are invited to 

submit questions to the Board in person and remotely

–  The Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer host results presentations and Q&A 
sessions and meet with a broad spread of the Group’s capital providers throughout the year 
–  Members of the Board engaged with investors at the Capital Markets Day in November 2021
–  Analyst and broker briefings, and reports of meetings with major or prospective 

shareholders, are circulated to Directors outside the formal Board meeting schedule
–  In FY2022 the Board sought shareholder feedback on the best course of action on the use 

of the proceeds following the completion of the sale of Smiths Medical

–  In FY2022 the Chair of the Remuneration & People Committee met with our top 

shareholders to discuss Smiths Remuneration Policy

–  The Board considers its dividend policy and the UK Pensions Act 2021, prior to approving the 

payment of a dividend

OUTCOMES OF ENGAGEMENT IN FY2022
–  The Board reaffirmed the Group’s strategy including the Smiths Value Engine and focus 

on our three priorities of Growth, Execution and People

–  The Board approved holding a Capital Markets Day in November 2021 to update investors 

and other stakeholders on the Group’s strategy and medium-term targets
–  The Board approved the planned creation of a Sustainability at Smiths Report
–  The Board considered the Group’s capital allocation and dividend policy in light of the 

cash proceeds received from the sale of Smiths Medical. The Board determined that the 
proceeds would be split between investment in growth and a significant return of capital 
to shareholders through a share repurchase programme

–  The Board approved the payment of the final dividend for FY2021 and the FY2022 

interim dividend

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNON-FINANCIAL 
INFORMATION 
STATEMENT

The following disclosure aligns to the non-financial reporting 
requirements contained in sections 414CA and 414CB of 
the Companies Act 2006 and reflects our commitment to 
and management of the environment, employees, social 
matters, human rights and anti-bribery and anti-corruption. 
Our Smiths culture and Values support our efforts in these 
areas and are described on page 9.

Environment
We committed to ambitious Net Zero targets: Net Zero emissions 
from our operations (Scope 1 and 2) by 2040 and Net Zero emissions 
from our supply chain and products in use (Scope 3) by 2050. We also 
have longstanding commitments to use energy and other natural 
resources efficiently and minimise waste. The policies that support 
our approach include:

–  Environmental Sustainability Policy
–  Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) Policy
–  HSE Reporting Policy
–  Responsible Minerals Sourcing Policy
–  Restricted Substances Policy

Employees
Our people are vital to the success of Smiths, and we aim to attract 
and retain the very best by creating an environment for employees 
based on respect, personal growth, recognition and development 
of talent, and a sense of belonging and purpose. The policies that 
support our approach include:

–  Fair Employment Policy
–  Global Mobility Assignment Policy
–  Recruitment Policy

Social matters
We aim to improve our world by contributing positively to our 
communities and society. Smiths products and services support 
critical global industries and our operations around the world play 
a role in local economies through job creation; procurement and 
generating tax revenues; operating responsibly and ethically; and 
engaging directly. The policies that support our approach include:

–  Code of Business Ethics
–  Data Protection and Privacy Policy
–  Data Protection Code of Conduct
–  Supplier Code of Conduct

45

Human rights and anti-bribery  
and anti-corruption
We are committed to upholding high ethical standards wherever 
we operate around the world, and we require our suppliers and 
other business partners to do the same. Bribery and corruption 
matters are covered by our Code of Business Ethics. We also have 
specific policies and procedures relating to activities that create 
bribery and corruption risks, and an umbrella anti-bribery and 
anti-corruption policy that provides a single view of our approach. 
These policies cover a broad range of matters including the 
giving and receiving of gifts, meals, and hospitality; invitations 
to government officials; our approach to facilitation payments; 
and controls around the appointment of distributors and agents, 
customs brokers, and freight forwarders. The Smiths Modern 
Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement and our Human Rights 
Policy can be found on our website.

Policy due diligence and outcomes 
Smiths operates a confidential ‘Speak Out’ reporting hotline 
to report behaviour and activities that breach our Values, our 
policies, or the law. This is critical to assessing the effectiveness 
of our policies. All reports to the ‘Speak Out’ hotline are 
investigated, and metrics associated with reporting monitored. 
Reports can be made anonymously. Our ethics training operates in 
two tiers – online modules delivered in all our core languages, and 
group training activities covering specific subjects. Additionally, 
we run regional ethics workshops for leaders across Smiths to 
embed a deeper understanding of our ethics and compliance 
critical drivers. 

During FY2022 we continued to review the effectiveness of certain 
of our policies, including:

–  Reviewing our ethics dashboard which enables us to interrogate 

our register of gifts, meals, and entertainment

–  Requiring all colleagues to take a modern slavery awareness 

training module every two years

–  Implementing a new Supplier Code of Conduct, including details 

of how third parties can report concerns to our ‘Speak Out’ hotline

–  Updating the Human Rights Policy, including the commitment 
to ensure that recruitment agents are free from practices 
associated with human rights violations 

–  Creating a working group, comprised of divisional and Group 

Procurement leadership and the Ethics & Compliance team, to 
monitor and review procurement related modern slavery and 
human rights risks and controls 

–  Introducing micro-awareness videos that enable us to 

communicate quickly and effectively on issues that arise

–  Conducting our third climate risk and opportunities assessment 

for the divisions and Group

Other information
Other information to support this statement can be found 
as follows: 

–  Business model on page 9
–  Principal risks and uncertainties on page 47
–  Non-financial KPIs on pages 22 and 23
–  Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures on page 35
–  Viability Statement on page 54
–  Sustainability at Smiths Report which can be found on 

our website

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS46

Risk governance
The Board and its Committees set the culture and approve the 
strategy of the Group. The Board ensures appropriate oversight 
and monitoring through a number of mechanisms, including 
strategy reviews, Committee meetings, management reports 
and focused reviews of selected risk areas.

On behalf of the Board, the Audit & Risk Committee is responsible 
for reviewing and assessing the effectiveness of the Group’s risk 
management and internal control systems. The review process 
covers the Group’s principal risks, as well as financial, operational 
and compliance controls. 

The Executive Committee is responsible for designing the 
Enterprise Risk Management framework and ensuring that 
it is effectively deployed throughout the Group. The Executive 
Committee also ensures that the Board’s risk appetite is 
understood by risk owners and decision-makers, ensures risks, 
including climate risk, are adequately managed, and conducts an 
annual assessment of strategic risk. Each principal risk is owned 
by a member or members of the Executive Committee.

RISK 
MANAGEMENT

We operate across a number of markets and geographies. 
We are prepared to accept certain levels of risk to realise 
our ambitions, and our Purpose, to improve our world 
through smarter engineering.

We understand the risks we face and take a proactive 
approach to risk management in order to maximise 
opportunities, drive better commercial decision-making, 
and protect our people and our businesses.

Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) roles and responsibilities

3rd

LINE OF DEFENCE

2nd

LINE OF DEFENCE

BOARD AND AUDIT &  
RISK COMMITTEE

 – Approve the strategy and set the culture and risk appetite of the Group

 – Review and assess the effectiveness of risk management and internal 

INTERNAL AUDIT

control systems

 – Monitor through Board processes and good governance
Independent assurance
 – Provide assurance on internal controls, programmes, systems and risk 

management processes

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE  
AND SENIOR MANAGEMENT

 – Design and establish risk management and internal control systems

 – Ensure that the risk appetite of the Board is understood by risk owners 

RISK AND COMPLIANCE  
FUNCTIONS

and decision-makers

 – Ensure risks are adequately managed
Monitoring and compliance
 – Develop and manage the ERM process

 – Monitor risks and controls 

 – Develop and manage policies and control frameworks

 – Ensure financial, legal and ethical compliance 

 – Ensure security, quality and health and safety

1st

LINE OF DEFENCE

DIVISIONAL MANAGEMENT

Risk ownership and mitigation
 – Identify, manage and escalate risks 

 – Set division’s strategic objectives

 – Establish and apply internal control systems

OPERATIONAL TEAMS

 – Escalate issues to the Executive Committee as required
Conducting business activities in accordance with Group policies and standards
 – Understand roles and responsibilities

 – Comply with policies

 – Follow risk management processes

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PRINCIPAL 
RISKS AND 
UNCERTAINTIES

We maintain a register of principal risks and uncertainties 
covering the strategic, financial, operational and 
compliance risks faced by the Group.

Risk process
We review each risk and rate a number of factors: gross impact, 
applying the hypothetical assumption there are no mitigating 
controls in place; residual impact and likelihood, taking into 
account existing mitigating controls; the reputational impact of 
a risk; and velocity, which reflects the expected time we would 
have to react should a risk materialise. These, in turn, drive 
mitigation priorities. A trend metric shows the net position of the 
risk year-on-year. We report on the connectivity between risks to 
help understand the potential for one risk to have an impact on 
another. This is presented against each risk in the form of a ‘risk 
relationship’ chart indicating the linkage between each principal 
risk and others on the list. This has been used as an input to the 
Viability Statement assessment and will be used more widely in 
future risk scenario planning and mitigation work.

Changes to principal risks
Our principal risks continue to evolve in response to our changing 
risk environment. This year, based on our current assessment 
of their materiality, we have included two new principal risks: 
Growth, reflecting our renewed focus on growth in our strategy; 
and environment, social and governance (ESG), reflecting an 
increased focus from investors, employees, customers and 
suppliers. We have removed our Group Portfolio risk with the 
completion of the sale of Smiths Medical. We have combined a 
number of risks including COVID-19 and Integrated Supply Chain 
into a Business Continuity risk; Customers and Markets risks 
into a Commercial risk; and Ethical Breach and Contractual 
Obligations into Legal and Compliance risk.

While we continue to monitor and manage a wide range of risks, 
the tables that follow summarise those risks considered to have 
the greatest potential impact if they were to materialise. 

Running a business involves continual assessment and 
management of risks – it is an integral part of day-to-day 
operations. Our Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) process 
supports open communication on risk between the Board and 
Audit & Risk Committee, the Executive Committee, our divisions, 
functions and sites. It enables us to manage and monitor the 
risks which threaten successful execution of our strategy and 
ensures our strategic, financial, compliance and operational risks 
are appropriately considered by the Executive Committee and by 
the Board.

Our divisional and functional teams are responsible for day-
to-day management and reporting of risks, including climate 
risk. They identify new and emerging risks, escalate where 
appropriate, and take action to ensure risks are managed as 
required. Our divisions also conduct annual assessments of the 
risks they face. In FY2022 these were updated to ensure that the 
latest views were presented and considered.

Internal audit provides independent and objective assurance to 
both the Audit & Risk and Executive Committees on the adequacy 
and effectiveness of our risk management and internal control 
processes. It facilitates the ERM process and provides site-based 
controls and assurance reviews of key programmes, processes 
and systems.

The Audit & Risk Committee, on behalf of the Board, reviews 
the effectiveness of the risk management process, considering 
principal risks and uncertainties and actions taken by 
management to manage those risks. 

During FY2022 the Executive Committee agreed the ERM 
timetable, and the risks selected for ‘deep-dive’ discussions at 
Executive and Audit & Risk Committee meetings. These were: 
supply chain; product quality; and contractual obligations. 
The Group’s list of principal risks was also discussed and 
recalibrated by the Executive Committee. 

There is a requirement for risk owners to demonstrate how 
they provide assurance that controls are working effectively. 
Examples are provided in the tables of principal risks from 
page 49.

In addition, a further 32 risk workshops were facilitated at 
operational sites during the year to support the bottom-up view of 
risk that has fed into divisional and functional risk assessments.

The Directors consider the risk management process to 
be effective.

Emerging risks 
Emerging risks and horizon scanning are integrated into the 
ERM process. Functions in the business often take the lead in 
identifying and promoting risk awareness and mitigation activities.

Climate change remains an emerging risk and forms part of 
reporting and risk management in the business. During FY2022 
we undertook scenario analysis, including climate risk 
and opportunities workshops for Group and the divisions. 
Outcomes from this work are described in the Task Force 
on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) section on 
page 35.

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48

Principal risks and uncertainties

Principal risk

1. ORGANIC GROWTH
Ability to achieve organic growth  
in line with market opportunity

2. ESG
Failure to meet stakeholder expectations  
on environmental, social and  
governance obligations 

3. TECHNOLOGY
Technology disruption by existing  
or future competitor

4. PEOPLE
Ability to attract and retain people

5. BUSINESS CONTINUITY
Business disruption to supply chain  
or operations

6. ECONOMY AND GEOPOLITICS
Impact of economic and geopolitical environment 

7. COMMERCIAL
Loss of focus on customers and not competing  
in the right markets

8. PRODUCT QUALITY
Failure of product causes serious harm  
to people/property 

9. CYBER SECURITY
Impact of enterprise or product cyber event 

10. LEGAL AND COMPLIANCE
Significant ethical breach or failing  
to meet contractual obligations

Key
Link to strategy

Growth 

Execution 

People 

Link to strategy

Gross risk

Residual risk

Likelihood

Velocity

Trend

Very High

Moderate

Possible

Years

High

Low

Possible

Years

Very High

Moderate

Probable

Years —

Moderate

Low

Possible

Months

High

Moderate

Probable

Weeks

High

Moderate

Likely

Months

High

Low

Possible

Moderate

Low

Probable

High

Low

Probable

High

Low

Possible

Years —

Weeks —

Days —

Days —

Likelihood

Almost Certain  

Likely  

Probable  

Possible  

Unlikely  

Trend 

New  

Stable 

Up 

> 80%

> 60%

> 40%

> 20%

< 20%

—

Connectivity between principal risks

ORGANIC  
GROWTH

ESG

TECHNOLOGY

PEOPLE

BUSINESS  
CONTINUITY

ECONOMY AND 
GEOPOLITICS COMMERCIAL

PRODUCT  
QUALITY

CYBER  
SECURITY

LEGAL AND  
COMPLIANCE

ORGANIC GROWTH

ESG

TECHNOLOGY

PEOPLE

BUSINESS CONTINUITY

ECONOMY 
AND GEOPOLITICS

COMMERCIAL

PRODUCT QUALITY

CYBER SECURITY

LEGAL AND COMPLIANCE

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
 
 
 
 
49

1.  ORGANIC GROWTH – Ability to achieve organic growth in line with market opportunity 

RISK OWNER

Divisional Presidents

TREND

 NEW RISK

The risk of not growing means we become less 
relevant and discounted by the market, resulting 
in erosion of shareholder value. A growth culture 
is a key component of the Group’s strategy. Growth 
is a framework that drives the operational tasks, 
projects and initiatives of the Group. The Group’s 
heritage depends on innovation, which presents 
numerous opportunities for growth that are 
constantly pursued. Companies that do not grow 
typically do not attract the most talented team 
members, as great people seek opportunities 
for advancement. 

How this could impact our strategy 
or business model
 – Material adverse effect on valuation
 – Erosion of our reputation as a leader 
in our markets and of our ability to 
attract and retain talent

Examples of how we manage this risk
 – A clear Group strategy to achieve organic 
growth goals, underpinned by detailed 
divisional strategies

Examples of how we know the controls 
are working effectively
 – Divisional performance and forecast 

reviews completed monthly

 – Detailed reviews of existing and potential 

 – Performance and KPIs monitored 

new markets to identify opportunities with 
significant growth potential

and tracked by the Board

 – Functional reviews of Smiths Excellence 

 – Securing and retaining the best talent to 

and People strategies

execute strategy and deliver organic growth

 – Annual incentive programme to support 

profitable growth

 – Annual strategic planning, budgeting 

process and monthly forecasting
 – Ongoing investment in research and 

development to drive innovation and growth
 – Smiths Excellence System in place to ensure 

effective execution

2.  ESG –  Failure to meet stakeholder expectations on environmental, social and governance obligations 

Examples of how we know the controls 
are working effectively
 – SSE Committee meets four times a year to 

review progress

 – Progress on environmental metrics
 – All divisions engaged in product areas that 

support environmental performance of, and 
through, customers

 – Strong scores for safety and ethical matters 

in the My Say employee survey

RISK OWNER

Chief Sustainability Officer

TREND

 NEW RISK

Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) 
areas are essential matters for all companies 
and stakeholders. Failure to meet stakeholder 
expectations on increasing ESG obligations may 
expose the Group to reputational or financial 
risk. This includes risks associated with 
shifting investor sentiment, evolving customer 
requirements, supply chain trends, social attitudes 
toward the environmental impact of products, and 
our ability to attract and retain talent. Failure to act 
appropriately may well increase the magnitude of 
the risk over the long term.

How this could impact our strategy 
or business model
 – Loss of key talent committed to 

working for a socially responsible and 
sustainable organisation

 – Limit the number of debt and equity investors 
 – Adverse impact on the ability to 
meet customer expectations on 
sustainability performance

 – Limiting the sustainable growth potential of 

our key business segments 

 – Failure to maintain strong controls and 
corporate governance on ESG-related 
non-financial metrics could lead to fraud 
or errors

Examples of how we manage this risk
 – Report on ESG in a transparent way with 
appropriate verification activity, including 
publication of our first Sustainability at 
Smiths report in FY2022

 – Science, Sustainability & Excellence  (SSE) 
Committee of the Board established to 
oversee and support delivery of ESG targets 
and goals

 – Sustainability strategy integrated to Group 

and division strategies, aligning and 
leveraging the Smiths Value Engine to deliver 
value for all stakeholders 

 – Executive management responsible for 

setting and delivering ESG goals

 – ESG targets built into long-term and annual 

remuneration incentive plans 

 – Meet Task Force on Climate-related 

Financial Disclosures (TCFD) 
reporting requirements 

 – Committed to setting Science-Based Targets 
to meet Net Zero Scope 1 & 2 emissions by 
2040 and Net Zero Scope 3 emissions by 
2050; also set 3-year targets FY2022-24 for 
GHG, waste, water and renewable electricity

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50

3.  TECHNOLOGY – Technology disruption by existing or future competitor 

RISK OWNER

Divisional Presidents

TREND

— 

Differentiated products and services are critical 
to our success. We may be unable to maintain 
technological differentiation; to meet customers’ 
existing needs or anticipate emerging demand 
trends; and may face disruptive innovation by 
a competitor. This could affect our strategy or 
business model through a material adverse effect 
on revenue, revenue growth or profit margin; 
erosion of our reputation as a technology leader 
in our markets; and our ability to attract and 
retain talent. 

How this could impact our strategy 
or business model
 – Material adverse effect on margin 

and profitable growth

 – Erosion of our reputation as a leader 
in our markets and of our ability to 
attract and retain talent

Examples of how we manage this risk
 – Proactive repositioning of the portfolio 

 – Gross Vitality as a KPI
 – Robust intellectual property (IP) protection 

around the most attractive markets where 
we can sustainably hold a top three position 
based on technology leadership

 – Diversified technology portfolio serving a 

range of sectors and geographies, mitigating 
exposure to any one sector or area

 – Continuing and smarter investment in R&D 
(FY2022: 4.2% of Group revenue, FY2021: 
3.9%)

 – Focus on building a culture of innovation 
with a long-range technology roadmap 
for each division

 – Focus on next generation and 
transformational initiatives

 – New Product Introduction (NPI) 

process operating across divisions 
to accelerate projects

via patents and other protections, and 
litigation where appropriate

Examples of how we know the controls 
are working effectively
 – New product development progress is 
reviewed by the SSE Committee and 
is part of our internal performance 
indicator tracking system 

 – Adherence to NPI process is audited 

and embedded in systems with monthly 
‘pipeline’ overview provided by divisions

 – Technology roadmap is part of the 

Group strategic cycle

4.  PEOPLE – Ability to attract and retain people

RISK OWNER

TREND

Chief People Officer

People are our only truly sustainable source 
of competitive advantage and competition for 
key skills is intense, especially around science, 
technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) 
disciplines. We may not be successful in attracting, 
retaining, developing, engaging and inspiring the 
right people with the right skills to achieve our 
growth ambitions. 

How this could impact our strategy 
or business model
 – Inability to attract key talent leading 
to a loss of competitive advantage

 – Difficulty in retaining personnel, at all 
levels of the organisation, leading to a 
loss of competitive advantage

 – In acquisitions, losing key personnel from 
the newly-acquired business which may 
significantly impact performance and value

Examples of how we manage this risk
 – Remuneration regularly evaluated 

against market trends

 – Focus on Smiths Leadership Behaviours 
 – Introduction of technical engineering 

communities, technical career ladder, 
and early career programme
 – Targeted talent and succession 

planning strategy 

 – Focus on onboarding and initial 

experience improvement

 – Increase internal talent mobility 
 – Structured assessment, development, 

and reward programme

 – Diversity and inclusion initiatives

Examples of how we know the controls 
are working effectively
 – Formal and informal measures of culture, 
for example regular engagement surveys 
with follow-up action planning

 – Remuneration & People Committee 

tracks key people metrics

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51

5.  BUSINESS CONTINUITY – Business disruption to supply chain or operations

RISK OWNER

TREND

Divisional Presidents

Major disruption to the Group’s operations can 
result in failure to meet our customer needs. 
Timely, efficient supply of raw materials and 
purchased components is critical to our ability 
to deliver to our customers. Manufacturing 
and supply chain continuity is exposed to 
external events that could have significant 
adverse consequences, including natural 
catastrophes, civil or political unrest, changes 
in regulatory conditions, terrorist attacks 
and disease pandemics – this applies to our 
own manufacturing sites and those of our 
key component suppliers. 

How this could impact our strategy 
or business model
 – Inability to deliver products/solutions 
to customers, impacting financial 
performance and reputation

Examples of how we manage this risk
 – Smiths Excellence System operating model 
delivers increased focus on resilient and 
cost-effective supply

Examples of how we know the controls 
are working effectively
 – Business continuity plans tested annually
 – Risk mitigation plans reviewed and 

 – Business continuity and disaster recovery 

reported by divisions 

 – Business interruption risk surveys 
completed by an external provider 
for key operational sites

 – Insurance requirements driven by the 
risk appetite of the Group and divisions 
are validated at least annually

plans in place and tested for critical locations

 – Regular evaluation of key sites for a 

range of risk factors using externally 
benchmarked assessments – risk reduction 
measures for critical products and dual 
manufacturing capabilities

 – Mitigation plans for sole source suppliers, 
sub-contractors and service providers 
developed and deployed by divisions to 
include qualification of alternative sources 
of supply where appropriate 
 – Property damage and business 

interruption insurance

6.  ECONOMY AND GEOPOLITICS – Impact of economic and geopolitical environment

Examples of how we know the controls 
are working effectively
 – Cost and price inflation are tracked 

and actively managed monthly 

 – Order tracking reported and monitored
 – Business indicators reported weekly

RISK OWNER

TREND

Chief Financial Officer

The world is experiencing widespread global 
inflation and severe inflation in energy markets. 
The Russian invasion of Ukraine has resulted in 
new trade sanctions and introduced additional 
supply and pricing uncertainties to tight energy 
and commodity markets. China’s approach to 
managing COVID-19 is further contributing to 
rising costs and disrupted supply chains. Central 
banks globally are raising rates in order to curb 
inflation. Smiths faces the risk of rising labour, 
material, and transportation costs which it may 
not be able to pass on through pricing. In addition, 
as central banks take action to curtail inflation, 
there is a risk of a regional or global recession 
which would pressure our revenue growth and 
profitability. Geopolitical tensions and trading 
bloc formation may further impact the free 
movement of capital, goods, and people and add 
volatility to our supply chains or constrain our 
market opportunities. 

How this could impact our strategy 
or business model
 – Significant and prolonged reduction 
in global demand for our products

 – Geopolitical tensions relating to Russia, 

China, India, and the Middle East adversely 
impact trade 

 – Adverse impact on business performance 

due to the imposition of tariffs

 – Governments continue to look for ways 
to improve tax revenues to ease fiscal 
budget pressures

Examples of how we manage this risk
 – Diversified portfolio of businesses which 
mitigates exposure to any one country 
or sector

 – Geographic spread which mitigates the 

impact of trade barriers between regions
 – Divisions monitor order flows and other 

leading indicators so that they may respond 
quickly to deteriorating trading conditions 
and tariffs/barriers to free trade

 – Representation of our interests by the Group 

Corporate Affairs team

 – Network of trade compliance officers across 
the Group who monitor upcoming changes 
in regulation and oversee import and 
export activities

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52

7.  COMMERCIAL – Loss of focus on customers and not competing in the right markets 

RISK OWNER

Divisional Presidents

TREND

— 

Our markets are evolving at a fast pace, creating 
potential for customers to change their business 
models as they look to deliver products and 
services at higher quality, with better service 
and at lower cost. Failure of the Group to keep 
pace with customer changes/requirements 
(innovation, go-to-market strategies) could have a 
materially adverse impact on Group performance. 
A significant proportion of our revenue comes 
from the US and European markets, with a notable 
proportion coming from governments. In addition 
to geographical markets, there is a risk that we 
do not focus on attractive sectors where we have, 
or could have, a sustainable position. The Group’s 
growth strategy is expanding our operations in 
developing/higher-growth markets – particularly 
markets that are underserved in Asia Pacific. 

How this could impact our strategy 
or business model
 – Failure to develop other markets and 

geographies impacts strategic progress 
and financial performance

 – Significant disruption to government budgets 
results in fewer contracts being awarded 
to Smiths, impacting financial performance

 – Loss of market share and adverse impact 

on Group results

 – Strategic process to capture 

continuing opportunities in current 
and adjacent markets

 – Government relations function which 
collaborates with colleagues across 
the Group to advise on developments

Examples of how we know the controls 
are working effectively
 – Strategic review process; divisional 

deep dives

 – Customer input gathered on a frequent basis
 – Strong and long-term customer 
relationships provide assurance

 – Managing Director councils established 

in India and China

Examples of how we manage this risk
 – New product innovation feedback through 
market research and direct feedback from 
existing and potential customers
 – A diversified portfolio of businesses 

mitigates exposure to any one country, 
sector or customer

 – Growth strategy which places emphasis 

on expanding operations in higher-growth 
markets and regions which are currently 
underserved, including Asia

8.  PRODUCT QUALITY – Failure of product causes serious harm to people/property 

RISK OWNER

Divisional Presidents

TREND

— 

The mission-critical nature of many of our 
products, services and solutions makes the 
potential consequences of failure more serious 
than for other businesses. In the ordinary course 
of business, we are potentially subject to material 
product liability claims and lawsuits, including 
potential class actions, from customers or 
third parties. Internal risks can originate from 
inadequacies or insufficiencies in processes 
for procurement of materials and components, 
change control, manufacturing, internal quality 
systems, adaptation to changing industry 
regulations, and systems maintenance and 
compliance. External risks can result from failure 
to manage product certification and compliance, 
inspections and audits or challenges to product 
registrations or certifications, which can lead to 
inability to bid for business and/or sell products 
and ultimately regulatory action and fines. 

How this could impact our strategy 
or business model
 – One of our businesses or Smiths, as a whole, 
has its reputation damaged leading to a loss 
of customers/future business 

 – Material harm caused to people or property 
and/or business interruption for customers 
due to quality issues, design defects, 
manufacturing failures, component failures, 
etc results in reputational damage, loss of 
business and higher costs beyond (costed in) 
warranty claims 

 – Contractual claims for penalties, 

indemnities, and damages and also product 
liability claims arising from end-users and 
other affected third parties (potentially 
large class)

Examples of how we manage this risk
 – Divisional quality risk assessments 

that address product failures, product 
performance, product safety, product 
compliance, regulatory compliance, and 
market authorisation

 – Quality assurance processes embedded 
in manufacturing locations for critical 
equipment, supporting compliance 
with customer requirements and 
industry regulations

 – Quality development and quality 
integration built into new product 
development processes

 – Risk analysis and mitigation processes 
relating to product cyber resilience 
embedded in the product lifecycle process. 
Proactive steps taken to ensure product 
cyber related risks are continually 
monitored and managed

 – Insurance cover for product liability 

and other related risks such as aviation 
grounding – Insurance and Legal teams 
partner to ensure contracts (and supplier 
flow downs) cover insurance issues and 
claims are notified

 – Contracting and litigation managed under the 
oversight of the Group General Counsel with 
regular reporting to Executive Committee 
and Board

Examples of how we know the controls 
are working effectively
 – Quality measures (e.g. defective parts per 
million (DPPM) and cost of poor quality 
(COPQ)) are measured and action plans put 
in place to drive their improvement – these 
are regularly reported

 – Group and divisional governance frameworks 
(including Delegation of Authority) ensure 
a close working relationship between legal 
and commercial teams (including quality) to 
manage risks 

 – Fewer quality issues at launch of 

new products 

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53

9.  CYBER SECURITY – Impact of enterprise or product cyber event

RISK OWNER

Chief Financial Officer

TREND

— 

Cyber attacks seeking to compromise the 
confidentiality, integrity and availability of 
IT systems and the data held on them are a 
continuing risk. We operate in markets and 
product areas which are known to be of interest 
to cyber criminals. Digitalisation and increased 
interconnectivity of our products intensify the risk 
and the number of areas under potential attack. 

How this could impact our strategy 
or business model
 – Compromised confidentiality, integrity and 
availability of our assets resulting from a 
cyber attack, impacting our ability to deliver 
to customers and, ultimately, financial 
performance and reputation

 – Exposure to significant losses in the event of 
a cyber security breach, particularly relating 
to our security products. These include not 
only customer losses, but also those of a 
potentially large class of third parties

Examples of how we manage this risk
 – Board oversight of the approach to mitigating 

cyber risk

Examples of how we know the controls 
are working effectively
 – Formal reviews with the Executive 

 – Proactive focus on information and cyber 

Committee and the Board

 – Vulnerability scanning/event reporting
 – External reviews of vulnerability controls
 – Mandatory staff training
 – Compliance with recognised standards

security risks supported by a strong 
governance framework

 – Group-wide assessment of critical 

information assets and protection to 
enhance security

 – Information Security Awareness programme
 – Security monitoring to provide 

early detection of hostile activity on 
Smiths networks and an incident 
management process

 – Partnership and monitoring arrangements 
in place with critical third parties, including 
communications service providers

 – Cyber risk analysis and mitigation processes 
embedded in the product lifecycle process 
to increase resilience

10.  LEGAL AND COMPLIANCE – Significant ethical breach or failing to meet contractual obligations

RISK OWNER

Group General Counsel

TREND

— 

We have more than 14,700 colleagues in more 
than 50 countries. Individuals may not all behave 
in accordance with the Group’s Values and in 
accordance with ethical and legal requirements. 
We operate within increasingly complex legal 
regimes, often in highly regulated markets and 
with governments, customers and suppliers 
requiring strict adherence to laws. We may fail 
to deliver contracted products and services or 
fail in our contractual execution due to delays or 
breaches by our suppliers or other counterparties. 

How this could impact our strategy 
or business model
 – Ethics or compliance breach causes harm 
to our reputation, financial performance, 
customer relationships and our ability to 
attract and retain talent

 – Failure to comply with trade compliance 

(import and export) leads to significant fines 
and/or delays procurement or supplies 
 – Failure to meet strict conditions within 

government contracts, particularly in the 
US, could prevent us bidding for contracts 
or have other serious financial and 
reputational consequences

 – Breach of contract resulting in significant 
expenses due to disputes and claims, loss 
of customers, damage to our reputation with 
other customers/prospective customers, 
and loss of revenue and profit due to higher 
costs, liquidated damages or other penalties

 – Contracts, particularly those with 

 – Network of trade compliance officers 

governments, may include terms that provide 
for unlimited liabilities, including for loss of 
profits, IP indemnities, perpetual warranties 
or allowing the counterparty to cancel, 
modify or terminate unilaterally and seek 
alternative sources of supply at our expense

Examples of how we manage this risk
 – Ethics and Compliance team run a proactive 
programmatic approach, areas of which are 
at different stages of maturity including: 
 – Managing an independent ‘Speak Out’ 

reporting line and investigations process 
with communications encouraging the 
reporting of ethics violations (includes 
ability to report anonymously and a non-
retaliation policy)

 – Anti-bribery and anti-corruption and other 
mandatory training for all employees on-
line and in person training with process 
for monitoring and reporting compliance

 – Policies and process to mitigate risks 
including policies and procedures to 
mitigate distributor and agent-related 
risks, including due diligence, contractual 
controls and internal approvals

 – Anti-trust training programmes and 
guidance and dawn raid processes
 – Modern Slavery and Transparency 

Statement and procedures to reduce 
the risk of modern slavery within the 
Group and our supply chain

across the Group who monitor upcoming 
changes in regulation and oversee import 
and export activities

 – Monitoring and acting on upcoming 

legislative changes

 – Multi-functional programme for General 

Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) 
compliance

Examples of how we know the controls 
are working effectively
 – Multiple sources to assess culture including 
My Say results, ‘Speak Out’ reports, Ethics 
Pulse surveys, internal audit findings, 
exit interviews and ethics questions in 
performance reviews

 – Monitoring and reporting on compliance with 
ethics and compliance policies, on training 
statistics, on investigations, on results of the 
Ethics Pulse metrics (Executive Committee 
and Audit & Risk Committee oversight)
 – Divisional legal teams embedded in the 
business, working cross-functionally 
throughout the contract lifecycle, contract 
risk tool rolled out in three divisions and 
used to assess mitigation of risk through 
contract negotiations

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54

The Directors have determined that a three-year period to 31 July 
2025 is an appropriate timeframe for the viability assessment. 
The selected period is considered to be appropriate as, based 
on the historical performance of the Group, a three-year outlook 
represents an optimum balance of long-term projection and 
acceptable forecasting accuracy. The three-year viability 
assessment timeframe also takes into account considerations 
such as the maturity of the Group’s borrowing facilities and 
the cyclicality of the performance of the Group’s underlying 
markets. In making this viability assessment, the Directors have 
considered the current financial position and prospects of the 
Group, including the current year business performance, the 
detailed operating plan for 2023 and forecasts for 2024 and 2025. 
Against these financial projections, the Directors took into account 
the principal risks (as outlined on pages 48 to 53) to develop a set 
of plausible scenarios (as set out overleaf) with potentially high-
impact outcomes.

In addition to the scenario specific assumptions (detailed overleaf) 
the principal assumptions for this three-year viability assessment 
are as follows:

 – FY2023 forecasts are based on the detailed operating 

plan reflecting the actual FY2022 performance

 – FY2024 and FY2025 are based on forecast percentage 

growth rates from the FY2023 forecast

 – The severe but plausible downside scenario for the recurrence 

of COVID-19 disruption has been modelled assuming a 
significant decline in demand and supply chain disruption 
(as outlined in Scenario 1 on page 55)

 – No mitigating activities such as further restructuring 

or the access to additional financing have been reflected 
in the forecast estimates

Consideration was then given to the magnitude of the gross risks 
and their potential impact, directly or indirectly, on the Group’s 
future performance and liquidity. The assessment included stress 
testing of the Group’s financial capacity to absorb the impact of 
such adverse events, either individually or in combination, and 
what mitigating actions the Group could take to respond to them 
in order to protect its business.

The Directors also considered the Group’s ability to raise 
additional liquidity. In performing this assessment, the Directors 
have taken comfort from the diversity of the Group’s businesses 
across different markets, industries, geographies, products and 
customers. In order to ensure consistency, the base case used 
for the three-year viability assessment has also been reconciled 
against divisional impairment review models.

Based on the robust assessment, the Directors confirm that they 
have a reasonable expectation the Group will remain viable for 
the period being assessed and will continue to operate and meet 
its liabilities as they fall due. The Directors have no reason to 
doubt that the Group will continue in business beyond the period 
under assessment.

GOING CONCERN 
AND VIABILITY 
STATEMENT

The Group’s business activities, together with the factors 
likely to affect its future development, performance and 
position are set out in the Strategic Report on pages 5 to 
55. The financial position of the Company, its cash-flows, 
liquidity position and borrowing facilities are described 
on pages 15 and 16. In addition, the notes to the financial 
statements include the Company’s objectives, policies 
and processes for managing its capital; its financial 
risk management objectives; details of its financial 
instruments and hedging activities; and its exposures 
to credit risk and liquidity risk.

The Group has undertaken a detailed going concern review with 
a severe but plausible downside scenario taking into account 
everything that has been learnt since March 2020.

At 31 July 2022 the net debt of the Group was £150m, a £872m 
decrease from 31 July 2021. At the end of July, the Group had 
available cash and short-term deposits of £1,056m. These liquid 
resources are immediately available with 99% invested with 
the Group’s global banking partners. The Group’s debt profile 
shows an average maturity of 2.5 years (from 3.2 years at 31 July 
2021), with the next debt maturity being the €600m Eurobond in 
April 2023. 

The Group maintains a core US$800m committed revolving 
credit facility from these banks which matures in November 
2024. The facility was undrawn at 31 July 2022 and has not been 
drawn since its last renewal in November 2017. This facility has an 
interest cover financial covenant. However, this is not forecast to 
prevent utilisation at the Group’s discretion if required.

The Directors, having made appropriate enquiries, have a 
reasonable expectation that the Company and the Group have 
adequate resources to continue in operation for a period of at 
least 12 months from the date of this Report. Thus, they continue 
to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the 
financial statements of the Company and the Group.

In accordance with the requirements of the 2018 UK Corporate 
Governance Code, the Directors have assessed the longer-term 
prospects of the Group, taking into account its current position and 
a range of internal and external factors, including the principal 
risks detailed on pages 47 to 53 (the ‘viability assessment’).

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS55

Scenarios modelled

Scenarios

Link to principal risks

Scenario-specific assumptions

Scenario 1
A global event, such as a significant 
COVID-19 resurgence lockdown, leads 
to the enforced closure of key production 
sites for a 2-3 month period with ongoing 
supply chain disruption, low customer 
demand and recessionary circumstances 
extending into the following year.

Scenario 2
One of John Crane’s mechanical seals is 
identified as faulty and the cause of an 
explosion at a major refinery causing the 
deaths of two staff and significant damage 
to the plant. John Crane is sued for the 
costs of repair and restoration of the plant 
in addition to the consequential losses 
of plant closure.

Scenario 3
Following a product cyber-attack, a 
terrorism related incident occurs at a 
US airport. As a consequence, the US 
Government revokes Smiths Detection’s 
licence. Sales of Detection’s products to 
the US military and all other governmental 
contracts have been banned and due to the 
reputational damage, the impact of the ban 
will spread to other divisions.

Scenario 4
Smiths Detection are found guilty of bribing 
government officials in Asian countries 
in order to land significant contracts. 
This damages the Group’s reputation and 
leads to worldwide regulators imposing 
significant sanctions on the Group.

Scenario 5
A major fire at the John Crane plant 
in Czech Republic renders the facility 
unusable, causing severe disruption 
to production.

Business continuity    
and Economy and  
geopolitics

 – 20% fall in revenue across the Group in FY2023 and a 10% fall  

in FY2024 compared to the base case. 

 – 65% reduction in operating profit in FY2023 due to plant closures, 
customer and supply chain disruption and a 35% fall in FY2024. 

 – Increased working capital due to stock builds and customer defaults.
 – No mitigating activities such as restructuring and 

headcount reductions.

Product  
quality

 – Legal defence costs of £20m per annum plus a one-off payment  

of £100m in FY2023 in settlement of deceased’s claims.

 – Legal defence costs of £5m per annum over the review period  

in relation to agreement of restoration costs.

 – Restoration costs of £50m spread over the 3-year review period.
 – Legal defence costs of £25m per annum over the review period  

in relation to mitigation of consequential loss claims.

 – One-off payment of £250m payable in FY2023 in settlement  

of the losses claim.

 – Insurance claim rejected.

Cyber security

 – Immediate loss of all US based Government contracts within 

Smiths Detection.

 – 25% fall in other Smiths Detection revenue over FY2023.
 – Loss of 50% of Interconnect’s North America revenue.
 – Legal defence costs of £10m per annum.
 – £100m fine levied by US Government for security breach.
 – £50m compensation paid to US Government in FY2023 in respect  

of previous products purchased that may have security flaws.
 – Insurance claim under product liability is not met or delayed  

outside of the review period.

 – Regulatory fines globally amounting to £100m.
 – Loss of all future revenue in both China and Japan.
 – 10% sales erosion in Detection’s USA and EMEA markets due  

to reputational damage.

 – £50m of severance costs incurred.
 – 10% fall in revenue within other Smiths businesses due to the 

reputational impact.

Legal and  
compliance

Business  
continuity

 – Loss of six months EMEA revenue and margin in FY2023.
 – 20% reduction in future (FY2024 and FY2025) EMEA revenue due  

to loss in market shares and competitiveness.

 – Breach of supply contracts leading to legal defence costs of £20m  

per annum plus a one-off settlement of £50m in FY2023.
 – Refurbishment and repair costs of £50m in Czech Republic  

(net of insurance claims).

 – Costs of increasing capacity at other John Crane sites incurs an 

additional £50m of cost.

 – Capital expenditure on replacement equipment in Czech Republic  

of £10m (net of insurance claims).

Scenario 6
Combination of scenarios 2 and 3.

Product quality and 
Cyber security

As above.

The Strategic Report was approved by the Board on 22 September 2022.

By order of the Board

Paul Keel
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
56

03 Governance

56-92

UK Corporate Governance Code Compliance 
In FY2022, and at the date of this report, the Company applied the 
Principles and complied with all Provisions of the UK Corporate 
Governance Code (the Code) in full, as explained throughout 
this Report. A copy of the Code is available from the Financial 
Reporting Council’s website at frc.org.uk. Further information on 
compliance with the Code can be found as follows:

Board Leadership and Company Purpose  

Division of responsibilities  

Evaluation, composition and succession  

Audit, risk and internal control  

Remuneration 

57

62

64

69

75

Having a strong governance framework that supports the 
Group’s long-term strategic goals is critical if we are to support 
the business and enhance the interests of all our stakeholders 
for the future. The Board continually keeps its governance 
arrangements under review. During the year the Board agreed 
to the formal constitution of three new Committees: the Science, 
Sustainability & Excellence Committee; the Remuneration & 
People Committee; and the Finance Committee which each 
evolved from the previous Remuneration and Transaction 
Committees respectively. 

These new Committees allow for greater oversight in the 
areas of innovation, sustainability, people and financial agility 
to help better support the Smiths Value Engine, that connects 
our Purpose, our strengths and our priorities of Growth, 
Execution and People.

Finally, I would like to thank the Smiths workforce and my 
fellow Directors for their work on shareholders’ behalf this 
year. In particular, I would like to thank Tanya Fratto who will 
be retiring from the Board at the conclusion of the 2022 AGM. 
During her tenure, Tanya has provided an invaluable contribution 
to the Company and I would like to thank her for her wise counsel 
and humour along the way. On behalf of the Board, I would also 
like to thank John Shipsey for his service to Smiths as Chief 
Financial Officer until April this year.  

I hope you find the following report interesting, and, along with my 
fellow Committee Chairs, I would be happy to discuss any of the 
content at our upcoming AGM.

Sir George W. Buckley
CHAIRMAN

CHAIRMAN’S 
INTRODUCTION

I am pleased to introduce our Corporate Governance Report, 
in which we describe our governance arrangements, the 
operation of the Board and its Committees, and how the 
Board discharged its responsibilities during the year. 

Following the COVID-19 disruption that so many of us suffered, 
this year we returned to face-to-face Board and Committee 
meetings and have had the opportunity to engage with and hear 
from many of our colleagues in person. This included a Board 
visit to our Flex-Tek operation in Portland, Tennessee. There is 
no substitute for meeting people to recognise the challenges they 
face, the aspirations they hold and the culture within which they 
operate. Understanding key components like these help the Board 
support a healthy business. It was also good to see, and for me 
to personally meet with, some of our shareholders at our Capital 
Markets event and the AGM last November. 

The Board took some critical strategic decisions during the year, 
including the decision to sell Smiths Medical to ICU Medical, Inc. 
The transaction completed in January, and we wish our former 
Smiths Medical colleagues every success moving forward. 
More information can be found on page 61. Board succession 
planning has also been a key focus this year. The Board made 
the decision to appoint Clare Scherrer as Chief Financial Officer 
in April, and to appoint Richard Howes as an independent Non-
executive Director in September 2022. The Board now comprises 
six males and five females, two Directors from historically 
under-represented ethnic groups and seven with a birthplace 
or background outside the UK. More information can be found 
in the Nomination & Governance Committee Report on page 
66. For a Group such as Smiths, with a diverse workforce and a 
wide geographic spread, that diversity is crucial, but it is equally 
important that the Directors are capable and suitably experienced 
individuals. The biographies of our Directors can be found on 
pages 58 and 59. 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY2022BOARD LEADERSHIP AND COMPANY PURPOSE

ROLE OF  
THE BOARD

57

The primary role of the Board is to lead Smiths in a 
way that ensures its long-term success. The Board 
is responsible for approving Group strategy and for 
overseeing its implementation. Subject to applicable 
legislation and regulation and the Articles of Association, 
the Directors may exercise all powers of the Company. 

The Board exercises oversight of our Company and in doing so 
ensures that the strategy is consistent with our Purpose and is 
delivered in line with our Values. In support of protecting and 
growing stakeholder value the Board continually monitors the 
internal controls, risk management and viability of the Company, 
as well as considering the views of stakeholders. 

The Board has approved a governance framework of systems 
and controls to effectively discharge its collective responsibility. 
The framework includes the delegation of specific authorities 
to the Board’s five Committees, as set out below. The Terms of 
Reference for these Committees, which were reviewed during 
the year, can be found on our website www.smiths.com. 

Governance model

BOARD

BOARD COMMITTEES

Nomination & 
Governance 
Committee

Reviews and makes 
recommendations to the 
Board on the structure, 
size and composition 
of the Board and its 
Committees. It also leads 
the process for Director 
appointments and Director 
and senior management 
succession planning. 

Oversees the ongoing 
suitability of the  
Group’s governance  
framework.

Audit & Risk  
Committee

Remuneration  
& People  
Committee 

Science, Sustainability 
& Excellence 
Committee

Finance  
Committee

Ensures the integrity of the 
Group’s financial reporting 
and audit processes, and 
the maintenance of sound 
internal control and risk 
management systems, 
including oversight of the 
internal audit function and 
the Group’s ethics and 
compliance activities. 

Manages the relationship 
with the external auditor, 
including making 
recommendations to the 
Board and shareholders in 
relation to the appointment 
and re-appointment of the 
external auditor.

Responsible for the Group’s 
Directors’ Remuneration 
Policy and reviews and 
oversees the Group’s 
remuneration strategy for 
the Executive Directors and 
senior management. 

Oversees, on behalf of the 
Board, the implementation 
of the People strategy 
for the Group, including 
the Group’s approach 
to diversity, equity 
and inclusion.

Oversees the Group’s 
culture and approach to 
science, sustainability 
and excellence (SSE). 
This includes reviewing 
the scientific and 
technology strategy, 
innovation, research and 
development; overseeing 
the Group’s sustainability 
strategy; overseeing 
the Smiths Excellence 
System; and reviewing and 
determining SSE targets, 
metrics and KPIs relating 
to remuneration.

Oversees and provides 
agility to the Group’s 
approach to capital 
management including 
sources and uses of cash, 
portfolio activity, changes 
to capital structure and 
budgetary planning. 

This Committee evolved 
from the Transaction 
Committee which 
previously focused on 
supporting the Smiths 
Medical sale.

P  66

READ MORE  
Committee Report

P 69

READ MORE  
Committee Report

P 75

READ MORE  
Committee Report

P 89

READ MORE  
Committee Report

SEE MORE  
www.smiths.com

EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEES 

Executive Committee
Assists the Chief Executive Officer in 
discharging his responsibilities and is 
collectively responsible for implementing 
strategy, ensuring consistent execution and 
embedding the culture and Values.

Investment Committee
Assesses high-value and high-risk proposals, 
capital expenditure, asset disposal and special 
revenue expenditure projects which require 
Chief Executive Officer or Board approval. 

Disclosure Committee
Advises the Chief Executive Officer and the 
Board on the identification of inside information, 
and the timing and method of its disclosure. 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202258

BOARD BIOGRAPHIES

Sir George Buckley 
Chairman
Appointed: 1 August 2013

N

R

S

F

I

Pam Cheng
Non-executive Director
Appointed: 1 March 2020

A

N

R

S

I

Skills and experience: Sir George has extensive experience of large, multi-
industry businesses operating in global markets and has had a long career 
in engineering and innovation. As Chairman, Sir George ensures effective 
communication with key stakeholders and that the Board provides strong 
leadership and guidance for the executive management team. During the 
year, Sir George provided invaluable leadership on the sale of Smiths 
Medical alongside his support of the Finance Committee. He holds a PhD in 
Electrical Engineering.

Skills and experience: Pam’s experience in the areas of R&D, manufacturing, 
sales and marketing, commercial operations, supply chain management 
and technology gained within large global businesses in strategically 
important regions for Smiths, further strengthens the Board’s discussions 
on embedding world class operations. Pam holds a Bachelor of Science 
and a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Stevens Institute of 
Technology, New Jersey and an MBA in Marketing from Pace University, New 
York, USA.

Career experience: Sir George has held previous roles of Chairman and 
CEO at 3M Company, a US based global technology company and Dow Jones 
30 component, Chairman and CEO of Brunswick Corporation and Chief 
Technology Officer for appliances, motors and controls at Emerson Electric 
Company. Sir George also brings non-executive experience to the Board, 
having served as Non-executive Director at PepsiCo Inc. and Hitachi Limited, 
and as Chairman of Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.

Career experience: Pam is Executive Vice-President, Operations and 
Information Technology at AstraZeneca plc, a multinational pharmaceutical 
and biopharmaceutical company. Prior to joining AstraZeneca in 2015, Pam 
was President of MSD (Merck & Co., Inc.) in China. Pam has also previously 
held various engineering and project management positions at Universal Oil 
Products, Union Carbide Corporation and GAF Chemicals.

Paul Keel 
Chief Executive Officer
Appointed: 25 May 2021

Skills and experience: Paul has a strong track record of delivering results 
in innovation-led and diversified global industrial technology businesses. 
His international experience positions him well to allow Smiths to deliver on 
its significant potential. He is a graduate of Carleton College and Harvard 
Business School.

Career experience: Prior to joining Smiths Paul worked at 3M Company 
between 2004 and 2020, within the US and UK. During this period, he led 
a number of global businesses including the $5bn revenue Consumer 
Business Group and several industrial businesses ranging in size from 
$400m in revenue to over $1bn. He also led a number of enterprise functions 
including Manufacturing and Supply Chain, Marketing and Sales, Strategy 
and Business Development. In the short period between 3M and Smiths, Paul 
completed a variety of consulting projects. Paul’s other experience includes 
roles of increasing responsibility at General Electric, McKinsey & Company 
and General Mills. 

Clare Scherrer 
Chief Financial Officer
Appointed: 29 April 2022. Clare will stand for election at the 2022 AGM

Skills and experience: Clare has extensive experience working with and 
advising a broad range of industrial companies around the globe. She has 
particularly relevant experience in the sectors in which Smiths has strong 
positions, including energy, safety & security and aerospace. She holds a BA 
from Harvard University and an MBA from the Harvard Business School.

Career experience: Clare joined Smiths from Goldman Sachs where she 
spent more than 25 years, and was a Partner for more than a decade, and 
most recently Co-Head of the Global Industrials business. Prior to joining 
Smiths, Clare had been a close adviser to the Group for a number of years, 
including having advised on the sale of Smiths Medical as well as having 
contributed to the development of the strategy announced at the November 
2021 Capital Markets event. Prior to Goldman Sachs, Clare was a consultant 
at McKinsey & Company. 

Dame Ann Dowling 
Non-executive Director
Appointed: 19 September 2018

A

N

R

S

I

Skills and experience: Dame Ann’s contribution to engineering research 
is internationally recognised, and her knowledge and background offer 
a different perspective to Board discussions, particularly as they relate 
to engineering, innovation and sustainability. Dame Ann has a degree in 
Mathematics and a PhD in Engineering.

Career experience: Dame Ann has had a distinguished academic career 
and is currently a Deputy Vice Chancellor and an Emeritus Professor of 
Mechanical Engineering at the University of Cambridge, where she served as 
Head of Engineering for five years until 2014. She served as the President and 
Chairman of Trustees of the Royal Academy of Engineering from 2014 to 2019 
and as a Non-executive Director of BP plc from 2012 until May 2021, where 
she was a member of the Safety and Sustainability Committee.

Tanya Fratto 
Non-executive Director
Appointed: 1 July 2012. Tanya will retire from the Board  
at the conclusion of the 2022 AGM

A

N

R

I

Skills and experience: In addition to her experience in manufacturing and 
operations, Tanya brings insight into product innovation, sales and marketing 
across a range of sectors and an extensive knowledge of operating in the US, 
to Board discussions. As one of the longest serving members of the Board, 
she has a deep knowledge of the Group. She is a qualified electrical engineer 
and has a BSc in Electrical Engineering.

Career experience: Tanya has had a successful career running 
businesses over 20 years with General Electric Corporation, a multinational 
conglomerate. Prior to joining the Smiths Board, she was the CEO of Diamond 
Innovations Inc, a manufacturer of industrial diamonds. Tanya also served as 
a non-executive director on the Board of Mondi plc from 2017 to May 2022.

Other significant appointments: Non-Executive Director of Advanced 
Drainage Systems, Inc. and Ashtead Group plc.

Key

A Audit & Risk Committee

R Remuneration & People Committee

F Finance Committee

Committee Chair

N Nomination & Governance Committee

S

Science, Sustainability  
& Excellence Committee

I

Independent Director or in the Chairman’s 
case independent on appointment

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202259

Karin Hoeing 
Non-executive Director
Appointed: 2 April 2020

N

R

S

I

Mark Seligman 
Non-executive Director
Appointed: 16 May 2016

A

N

R

F

I

Skills and experience: Karin brings current executive experience of oil & gas, 
defence, security, and aerospace to the Board gained from a range of roles 
at large multinational groups. Karin has also provided valuable assistance 
and advice in executive and non-executive succession planning and ESG and 
sustainability matters. Karin holds a Diploma Geophysics (MSc Geophysics) 
from the University of Hamburg, Germany.

Career experience: Karin is Group ESG, Culture and Business Transformation 
Director at BAE Systems plc. Prior to joining BAE she led one of the major 
international business divisions at Schlumberger, a multinational oil services 
company. Karin spent 20 years at Schlumberger, where she held a number of 
senior HR, marketing, technology and line management leadership positions 
across Europe, the Middle East and Asia. 

Richard Howes 
Non-executive Director
Appointed: 1 September 2022. Richard will stand for appointment at the 
2022 AGM

A

N

R

I

Skills and experience: Richard’s background in senior financial positions at 
large listed companies in a variety of sectors brings valuable insight to the 
Board’s discussions. Richard holds a BSc in Geography from Loughborough 
University and is a Fellow of the ICAEW.

Career experience: Richard is Chief Financial Officer of Bunzl plc, the 
specialist international distribution and services Group. Richard qualified as a 
Charted Accountant with Ernst & Young before moving to the investment bank 
Dresdner Kleinwort Benson. Prior to joining Bunzl in 2019, Richard held CFO 
positions at various multinational businesses including Inchcape plc, Coats 
Group plc and Bakkavor plc.

Bill Seeger 
Senior Independent Director 
Appointed: 12 May 2014

A

N

R

F

I

Skills and experience: Bill has had a long and successful career in finance 
in the engineering sector, gaining an in-depth knowledge of global markets. 
Bill’s extensive experience in global engineering businesses supports the 
Board’s robust decision-making. Bill has a BA in economics and an MBA. 

Career experience: Bill was appointed Chair of the Remuneration & People 
Committee on 1 July 2018, and as Senior Independent Director at the 2018 
AGM. Bill has been Chair of the Finance Committee since it was formalised in 
November 2021. With effect from 1 February 2022 Bill was appointed to the 
Board of ICU Medical, Inc. in accordance with the terms of the shareholders 
agreement entered into with the sale of Smiths Medical. He is also a member 
of ICU’s Audit and Compliance Committee. Bill was Group Finance Director 
at GKN plc, a global engineering group, until his retirement in 2014. At GKN 
he also held the roles of CEO of the Propulsion Systems Division and 
CFO of the Aerospace Division. Prior to that, Bill spent 30 years at TRW, a 
US-based automotive and aerospace group, where he held various senior 
finance positions. 

Other significant appointments: Senior Independent Director at Spectris plc 
and Lecturer at UCLA Anderson School of Management. 

Skills and experience: Mark’s extensive experience in corporate finance 
and capital markets supports Board discussion of the Group’s portfolio 
management and strategy. He provided significant counsel during the sale 
of Smiths Medical through his support of the Transaction and now Finance 
Committee. Mark also brings non-executive experience to the Board, having 
served as senior independent director and audit committee chairman at 
several FTSE100 companies. Mark is a Chartered Accountant and has an MA 
in philosophy, politics and economics. 

Career experience: Mark is a former senior investment banker and during his 
executive career he held various roles at Credit Suisse, including Chairman 
of UK Investment Banking. Mark served as a non-executive director on the 
Board of Kingfisher plc from 2012 to January 2021.

Other significant appointments: Senior Independent Director at NatWest 
Group plc and Alternate member at Panel on Takeovers and Mergers for the 
Association for Financial Markets in Europe. 

Noel Tata 
Non-executive Director
Appointed: 1 January 2017

A

N

R

I

Skills and experience: Noel has had a successful career in global business. 
He has extensive experience of the high-growth economies which are key 
markets for our growth strategy and has been invaluable in developing 
key strategic relationships in Asia since joining the Board. Noel has a BA 
in Economics.

Career experience: Noel was the Managing Director of Tata International 
Limited (TIL), a global trading and distribution company and a trading 
arm of the Tata Group, a privately  owned multinational holding company. 
Under the terms of the Tata Group governance guidelines, he retired from the 
position of Managing Director on 12 November 2021. He was thereafter re-
appointed as a Director and Non-Executive Chairman of TIL with effect from 
15 November 2021.

Other significant appointments: Each of the following companies forms 
part of the Tata Group: Non-independent Non-executive Chairman at Tata 
Investment Corporation, Trent Ltd and Voltas Ltd. Non-independent Non-
executive Vice Chairman at Tata Steel Limited and Titan Company Ltd.

Matthew Whyte 
Company Secretary
Appointed: 1 August 2021

Skills and experience: Matthew is a Chartered Company Secretary and a 
Fellow of The Chartered Governance Institute UK and Ireland. Matthew joined 
Smiths in 2017 having previously gained governance and legal experience in 
senior roles in large multinational listed groups in a variety of sectors, most 
recently at Schroders plc and Rio Tinto plc. 

Other Directors who served during FY2022
John Shipsey stepped down from the Board and as Chief Financial Officer 
in April 2022. His biography can be found in our FY2021 Annual Report.

READ MORE  
The biographies of the Executive Committee 
members can be found on our website.

Key

A Audit & Risk Committee

R Remuneration & People Committee

F Finance Committee

Committee Chair

N Nomination & Governance Committee

S

Science, Sustainability  
& Excellence Committee

I

Independent Director or in the Chairman’s 
case independent on appointment

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202260

People, Values and culture
–  Approved a workforce engagement strategy where individual Non-
executive Directors have been allocated divisional or functional 
and geographic areas of responsibility in order to reflect the global 
nature of our business and international composition of our Board. 
The Senior Independent Director is the designated Non-executive 
Director responsible for workforce engagement and oversees 
this activity

–  Received updates from the Non-executive Directors on their 
workforce engagement activities. This included Dame Ann 
Dowling’s visits to the Smiths Detection Hemel Hempstead site and 
to a Service Team on-site at a large customer; Pam Cheng’s visits 
to the Flex-Tek Tutco and Gastite operations; Mark Seligman’s visit 
to the Qualification and Test laboratory at Interconnect’s Dundee 
site; and Bill Seeger and Karin Hoeing’s attendance at colleague 
meetings about Ethics and Compliance and ESG 

–  Conducted one-on-one and group online meetings between 
Directors and employees during the COVID-19 pandemic. 
This ensured that Directors stayed in touch with the Group’s 
employees given that many were working from home

–  Received a report from the new Chief People Officer on her 

key observations since joining the Company and priorities for the 
new People strategy

–  Supported the Executive Committee in the launch of the new 
Smiths Leadership Behaviours to guide how we want our 
people to act in support of our culture

–  Oversight of the Assessment, Develop and Reward Project 

to align key elements of Smiths HR processes with the three 
priorities of Growth, Execution and People

–  Received regular updates on employee engagement, the 
Group’s pension arrangements and health and safety 

Succession and leadership
–  Focused on Board succession planning and key roles within 

the business 

–  Approved the appointment of a new Chief Financial Officer 

and Non-executive Director

–  Approved changes to the Executive Committee, including 

the appointment of seven new members 

–  Reviewed senior management succession plans and the talent 

pipeline across the Group

BOARD  
ACTIVITY

During FY2022, the Directors continued to provide 
oversight, challenge and guidance on a broad range of 
topics. This included the development and implementation 
of the Group’s strategic objectives, culture and operational 
performance. The key areas of focus for the Board during 
the year are set out below.

Purpose
–  Ensured that our focus on strategy and business decisions 

aligned with our Purpose

Strategy
–  Reaffirmed the Group strategy, including the Smiths Value 

Engine and focus on our three priorities of Growth, Execution 
and People 

–  Endorsed the refreshed divisional strategies and implementation 

of the new in-market operating model for China

–  Completed deep-dives on the implementation of each division’s 

strategy providing constructive feedback and guidance 
–  Ensured stakeholder considerations were embedded in 

discussions and decision-making through enhanced reporting 
from each of the divisions

–  Approved a new sustainability strategy 
–  Agreed the sale of Smiths Medical to ICU Medical, Inc (ICU) 
and the subsequent £742m share buyback programme 

–  Supported the relaunch of the Smiths Excellence System (SES) 
–  Discussed and considered opportunities for inorganic growth

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202261

Finance
–  Considered business performance through a series of 

divisional deep-dives at Board meetings

–  Reviewed and approved the Group’s results announcements and 

the FY2021 Annual Report 

–  Supported the de-risking of the TI Group Pension Scheme by 

way of a £640m bulk annuity buy-in. The Board considered and 
declined the request from the SI Pension Scheme Trustees to 
pay enhanced member benefits

–  Approved the final dividend for FY2021 and the FY2022 

interim dividend

–  Considered the feedback from stakeholders on the Capital 

Markets event held in November 2021

–  Other key matters considered by the Audit & Risk Committee 

are set out on pages 71 and 72

Governance and risk
–  Received updates on our principal risks 
–  Ongoing oversight of our internal controls in order to ensure 

an effective control environment

–  Continued monitoring of risk management and internal controls 
by the Audit & Risk Committee, including deep-dives from the 
divisions on supply chain and product quality

–  Approved and provided oversight of the Ethics and Compliance 

annual work programme

–  Ongoing consideration of the Group’s compliance with the 

Code and related activities 

–  Undertook an internal Board evaluation to review the 

effectiveness of the Board and its Committees, which included 
discussing the progress made from the previous year’s 
evaluation and agreeing actions for the next financial year. 
See pages 64 and 65

–  Approved the establishment of the Science, Sustainability & 

Excellence Committee and the evolution of the Remuneration 
& People Committee and the Finance Committee

–  Established a forward agenda focused on strategy and a deep-
dive programme to ensure regular reviews of key areas of focus

Principal decisions
Having an effective and diverse Board has enabled high quality 
discussions ahead of executing several key decisions during the year. 
The Board engages with stakeholders where relevant and takes their 
interests into account when making decisions. Below are examples 
of the principal decisions taken during the year. Further examples of 
how stakeholder views have been considered in the boardroom can 
be found on pages 41 to 44.

Sale of Smiths Medical to ICU
Smiths Medical was sold to ICU on 6 January 2022. However, the 
separation of Smiths Medical had been a key focus of the Board 
since 2018. The Board had determined that the separation of Smiths 
Medical would enable Smiths to concentrate on growing as a leading 
industrial technology group and enable Smiths Medical to focus on 
realising its full potential in the medical device market. 

Stakeholders were a key consideration during the decision-making 
process. The Board actively engaged with all options to maximise 
value for all stakeholders and to provide the Company with an 
enhanced platform for future growth. This led to the Board approving 
the sale of Smiths Medical to ICU. Another key Board decision was 
the use of the proceeds once the sale had completed. The Board 
sought shareholder feedback on the best course of action and 
determined that the proceeds would be split between investment 
in growth and a significant return of capital to shareholders through 
a share buyback programme. 

More information can be found on the website.

Reaffirming the Group’s strategy
Paul Keel joined the Board in May 2021 as the Group’s Chief 
Executive Officer. His first objective was to review the Group’s 
strategy, what was working well and where opportunities existed. 
In his first six months, Paul visited more than a dozen of Smiths 
largest operations around the world. To seek feedback he met with 
some of the Group’s suppliers and customers and Smiths largest 
investors. Paul reported his findings back to the Board and the new 
priorities, being accessing growth, improving execution and doing 
more to inspire and empower our people, were discussed and 
endorsed by the Board. The Capital Markets event in November 2021 
successfully communicated to shareholders and other stakeholders 
the Group’s strategy, including our ESG priorities and how each of 
the divisions were accelerating growth and value creation. At the 
Board’s strategy meeting in May 2022, the Board had the opportunity 
to review in detail and challenge the refreshed divisional strategies 
and the new in-market operating model for China.

The Board also decided to make several governance enhancements 
to support the strategy. This included the creation of the Science, 
Sustainability & Excellence Committee to oversee the Group’s 
approach to science, sustainability, and excellence, including R&D, 
commercialisation, and sustainability strategies. As well as the 
evolution of the Remuneration & People Committee to support the 
People priority in the Smiths Value Engine. In addition, it was agreed 
that the Finance Committee would oversee the Group’s sources and 
uses of cash including its approach to portfolio activity, evolving from 
the Transaction Committee which focused on supporting the Smiths 
Medical sale. Finally, to support accelerated growth and deliver 
on Smiths significant potential, the Board approved a number of 
changes to the Executive Committee.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY2022DIVISION OF RESPONSIBILITIES

HOW THE BOARD 
OPERATES

The following role specifications set out the clear division 
of responsibility between executive and non-executive 
members of the Board, which support the integrity of the 
Board’s operations.

62

There is a schedule of matters which are considered 
significant to Smiths and have therefore been reserved 
for decisions by the Board. This is due to their strategic, 
financial, or reputational implications or consequences. 
The formal schedule can be found on our website. 

The Chief Executive Officer is responsible for preparing and 
recommending the strategy and for the day-to-day management 
of the Company. Executive management implement the Group’s 
strategy and provide the Chief Executive Officer, and the Board 
as a whole, with the information they need to make decisions that 
will determine the long-term success of the Group. 

At each scheduled Board meeting the Chief Executive Officer 
and the Chief Financial Officer present separate reports, 
detailing business performance and progress against strategy. 
These are supplemented by regular performance updates from 
the Chief Executive Officer to the Directors between meetings. 
When appropriate, invitations to Board meetings are extended 
to divisional presidents, heads of functions and subject matter 
experts, supporting visibility of talent and executive succession 
planning. External advisers are invited to attend as necessary. 
Director attendance at Board and Committee meetings in 
FY2022 is set out on page 63. 

To ensure the continued effectiveness of the Board, the 
Chairman meets the Non-executive Directors without the 
Executive Directors present after each Board meeting. He also 
has separate meetings with the Senior Independent Director 
and the Chairs of the Board Committees on a regular basis and 
with each of the other Non-executive Directors at least annually. 
The Senior Independent Director consults with the other Non-
executive Directors without the Chairman present at least 
annually, to assess the performance of the Chairman.

CHAIRMAN
–  Ensures the Board’s continued effectiveness 
–  Shapes boardroom culture and encourages individual 

Director engagement 

–  Leads the Board and sets the Board agenda, determining 

the style and tone of discussions at Board meetings

–  Leads the annual Board evaluation

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
–  Develops and proposes strategy to the Board 
–  Sets and communicates the culture, Values, 

and behaviours for the Group
–  Leads the Executive Committee 
–  Manages the day to day operations of the Company
–  Manages relationships with key stakeholders

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
–  Supports the Chief Executive Officer in ensuring the 

development and execution of strategy 

–  Ensures the accuracy and completeness of the Group’s 
financial statements to ensure they reflect a true and 
accurate rendition of the Company’s performance

–  Ensures the Group operates robust risk 

management and internal control systems to ensure 
accurate and timely financial and non-financial reporting 
and ultimately to safeguard stakeholders’ interests

SENIOR INDEPENDENT DIRECTOR
–  Supports the Chairman in the delivery of the 

Board’s objectives

–  Is available to shareholders if they wish to raise 

any concerns

–  Oversees workforce engagement by the Non-

executive Directors 

–  Leads the Chair succession process

NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS
–  Provide constructive challenge and strategic guidance 

to Board and Committee discussions 

–  Oversee management and the business and offer 

specialist advice

–  Assess the effectiveness of systems of internal control 

and risk management

COMPANY SECRETARY
–  Advises the Board on governance matters 
–  Supports the Chairman in the efficient and effective 

functioning of the Board and its Committees 
–  Ensures the Board receives quality information 

in a timely manner

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202263

Time commitment
All Directors must allocate sufficient time to their work in order to discharge their responsibilities effectively. An expected time 
commitment of 25 days per annum is set out in the Non-executive Director letter of appointment. However, Committee Chairs, the 
Senior Independent Director and the Chairman commit more time as required. In the normal course of business, Directors are 
expected to familiarise themselves with business priorities and challenges, prepare for and attend Board and Committee meetings, 
attend the AGM, engage with stakeholders and participate in the Board evaluation process. Executive Directors are not permitted to 
take on the chairmanship or more than one non-executive directorship in a FTSE100 company, or any other significant appointment. 
Any appointment to other directorships are reviewed in advance by the Board for conflicts and time commitment considerations. 

In FY2022 the Board concluded that the Chairman and the Non-executive Directors devoted sufficient time to fulfil their commitments 
to Smiths. Particular consideration was given to Noel Tata’s other commitments as he holds a number of Board level positions outside 
the Group all of which are at Tata Group companies as shown in his biography on page 59. The Board reaffirmed that Noel’s other 
commitments do not prevent him from committing sufficient time to his work as a Director, as evidenced by his attendance and effective 
participation at all Board and Committee meetings and ad hoc Board update calls. As a current executive with contacts in higher-growth 
countries which are a strategic focus for Smiths, he brings valuable and distinct experience to our Board discussions. 

Advice and insurance
Our Directors are able to seek independent professional advice at the expense of Smiths to enable them to fulfil their obligations as 
members of the Board. In addition, the Directors and Officers of Smiths and its subsidiaries have the benefit of a Directors’ and Officers’ 
liability insurance policy. During FY2022, and at the date of this report, qualifying third-party indemnity provisions (as defined by section 
234 of the Act) have remained in force for the Directors of the Company and certain other employees in respect of their directorships of 
some subsidiary companies in relation to certain losses and liabilities which they may incur (or may have incurred) to third parties in the 
course of their professional duties for the Company, or a subsidiary.

Director attendance

Sir George Buckley

Paul Keel
John Shipsey1
Clare Scherrer1

Pam Cheng2
Dame Ann Dowling
Tanya Fratto
Karin Hoeing
Bill Seeger
Mark Seligman
Noel Tata

Nomination & 
Governance 
Committee

Audit & Risk 
Committee

Remuneration  
& People  
Committee

Science,  
Sustainability  
& Excellence 
Committee

Finance  
Committee

5/5

–
–
–

4/5
5/5
5/5
5/5
5/5
5/5
5/5

–

–
–
–

3/4
4/4
4/4
–
4/4
4/4
4/4

4/4

–
–
–

3/4
4/4
4/4
4/4
4/4
4/4
4/4

3/3

–
–
–

3/3
3/3
-
3/3
–
–
–

7/7

–
–
–

–
–
–
–
7/7
7/7
–

Board

10/10

10/10
7/8
2/2

9/10
10/10
10/10
10/10
10/10
10/10
10/10

1  On 29 April 2022 Clare Scherrer was appointed to the Board and John Shipsey stood down as a Director. John Shipsey did not attend the meeting where his ongoing appointment 

was discussed.

2  Pam Cheng was unable to attend the March Board and Committee meetings due to personal circumstances. Pam Cheng provided her comments and input on the matters under 

consideration to the Chairs of the relevant forums prior to the meetings being held.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY2022EVALUATION, COMPOSITION AND SUCCESSION

BOARD 
EVALUATION

64

Each year an evaluation of the Board and its Committees 
is conducted to monitor their effectiveness and to help 
identify any improvement opportunities. It is externally 
facilitated every three years. 

The annual evaluation of the performance of the Non-executive 
Directors and the Chief Executive Officer is led by the Chairman. 
The evaluation of the Non-executive Directors includes individual 
meetings with the Chairman. Feedback is given to the Chief 
Executive Officer by the Chairman after each Board meeting and 
on an ad hoc basis throughout the year. The Senior Independent 
Director and the Chief Executive Officer lead the evaluations for 
the Chairman and the Chief Financial Officer respectively.

Following the externally facilitated evaluation in FY2021, the 
FY2022 evaluation was carried out internally. Independent Audit 
Ltd, who have supported the evaluation process since FY2019, 
but have no other connection to the Company, assisted with the 
interpretation of the results of a self-assessment questionnaire 
issued to the Board. The actions following the FY2022 evaluation 
have been grouped in four themes: strategic decision making; 
succession planning; Board communication; and stakeholder 
engagement and are set out below. Overall, the Board agreed that 
significant progress had been made since the external evaluation. 
It is the present intention that the FY2023 evaluation will be 
internally facilitated.

Board evaluation findings and actions

STRATEGIC DECISION MAKING 

FY2021 external  
evaluation findings

–  Seek to reach a clearer 

consensus on the Group-wide 
strategic objectives and how 
the Company will achieve them

–  Ensure the Remuneration 
Committee has a balanced 
focus on both financial and non-
financial considerations

Action taken in FY2022

FY2022 evaluation findings  
and actions for FY2023

–  Following the appointment of Paul Keel the corporate 
strategy and communications plan for the Group 
post the sale of Smiths Medical were re-evaluated 
by the Board and reaffirmed. The strategy and 
accompanying KPIs are described on pages 10 and 21 
to 23 respectively

–  The Company held a Capital Markets event in 

November 2021

–  Enhanced 5 year strategic planning discussions were 
held with Group and divisional leadership, with a focus 
on delivering the strategic objectives in line with the 
Smiths Value Engine

–  Non-financial incentive measures for management 

are now part of Executive Director and senior 
management incentive arrangements

–  Greatly enhanced strategic discussions 
were held during the year resulting 
in clearer alignment on the Group’s 
strategic priorities. Going forward, the 
areas of focus would be greater visibility of 
macro conditions, external markets and 
the impact or opportunities arising from 
technology. The appointment of a Chief 
Sustainability Officer and the development 
and embedding of a sustainability strategy 
were particular improvements
–  When formulating its agendas, the 

Board will encourage increased time for 
strategic deep-dives to underscore the 
Board focus on organic growth 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202265

SUCCESSION PLANNING

FY2021 external  
evaluation findings

Action taken in FY2022

FY2022 evaluation findings  
and actions for FY2023

–  Hold regular discussions 

between the Non-executive 
Directors and Chief Executive 
Officer on his own to discuss 
senior management succession 
and development
–  Continue the Board’s 

engagement activities with key 
talent across the Group
–  Prepare for the transition 

of the Chairman and Senior 
Independent Director roles in 
the next few years

–  Executive and non-executive succession planning was 
a key focus during the year with the Board approving a 
number of Executive management changes

–  The Chief Executive Officer updated the Board on enhanced 
talent and succession planning for senior leadership roles
–  Chair succession planning commenced led by the Senior 

Independent Director

–  The Board continued its interaction with high-potential 

employees to improve their understanding of the internal 
‘bench strength’ with virtual and in person one-to-one 
talent spotlights frequently taking place 

–  Face-to-face exposure at Board and Committee meetings 
for high-potential talent within the Group was reintroduced 
once travel restrictions were lifted

–  The Board visited Flex-Tek’s operation in Portland, 
Tennessee and met with members of the Flex-Tek 
leadership team

–  Board succession planning for non-

executive positions was identified to be 
a key focus for consideration during 
the year

–  Changes to the Executive management 

team were well managed and 
succession planning oversight had 
been enhanced significantly 

–  Further focus would be arranged on 
Executive Committee development 
and succession planning, including 
providing opportunities for the Non-
executive Directors to meet individually 
and in small groups with a cross-
section of employees

BOARD COMMUNICATION

FY2021 external  
evaluation findings

Action taken in FY2022

FY2022 evaluation findings  
and actions for FY2023

–  More frequent updates for 
the Board as the Smiths 
Medical separation transaction 
progressed were requested
–  Consider the scheduling of 
Committee meetings and 
holding hybrid meetings 
–  Continue to improve the 

timeliness of Board information
–  Structure Chief Executive Officer 

and Chief Financial Officer 
reports to tie in more closely 
with progress on strategic 
priorities of the business

–  Regular updates on the Smiths Medical sale were provided 
through the formation of the Transaction Committee which 
met eight times during FY2022 prior to its formalisation as 
the Finance Committee (which met a further seven times)
–  The Board continued to identify opportunities to improve 
communication between itself and Group executives. 
The new ways of working which were adopted during the 
pandemic were retained with one Board meeting and a 
number of Committee meetings held remotely or partially 
remotely to reduce international travel. This promoted 
good governance through agile and timely decision making

–  The new processes introduced to facilitate early stage 
information flows and ensure that the Non-executive 
Directors (specifically the Chairman and Committee 
Chairs) had the opportunity for earlier input into Board 
and Committee papers were further evolved and briefing 
processes refined

–  Significant improvements were 

evidenced at Board meetings both in 
the quality and timeliness of Board 
and Committee materials and also 
the openness and quality of debate 
arising therefrom

–  Meeting dynamics had improved 
leading to better conversations 
–  The success of the Transaction 

Committee led to the formalisation of 
its activities with the establishment of 
the Finance Committee. This helped to 
improve information flows and decision-
making and guidance in an agile manner

–  Remote or hybrid meetings will 

continue and the organisation of Board 
and Committee meetings works well

STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT

FY2021 external  
evaluation findings

Action taken in FY2022

–  Restructure the Board’s 

interaction with stakeholders 
with more focus on ESG, 
employee engagement 
and hearing customer and 
supplier perspectives

–  Transfer the role of designated 
Non-executive Director for 
employee engagement from the 
Senior Independent Director to 
another Non-executive Director

–  A stakeholder map has been developed
–  A Director workforce engagement strategy was 

developed with individual Non-executive Directors being 
allocated divisional or functional and geographic areas of 
responsibility. Oversight is provided by the Remuneration 
& People Committee

–  The Science, Sustainability & Excellence Committee was 
established, which provided oversight for many activities 
connected with the Group’s stakeholders

FY2022 evaluation findings  
and actions for FY2023

–  The Board acknowledged that 

continued focus on ESG, people, 
talent, culture and suppliers was 
critical, and that the ongoing focus on 
the successful establishment of the 
Science, Sustainability & Excellence 
Committee’s role were key

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202266

Committee membership and meetings
The members of the Committee, their biographies and attendance 
at meetings during the year can be found on pages 58, 59 and 63. 

The Chief Executive Officer is normally invited to attend Committee 
meetings and attended all but one of the meetings in FY2022. 
Other members of senior management are invited to attend 
as necessary.

Committee performance evaluation
In FY2022, the performance of the Committee was considered 
as part of the internal Board evaluation process. Overall, it was 
confirmed that the Committee continues to operate effectively. 

Committee activities

Board succession
The Board has a duty to keep succession plans under regular 
review. The Non-executive Directors, without the Chairman 
present and led by the Senior Independent Director, discussed 
the succession arrangements for the Chairman who reached 
his nine-year anniversary since appointment on 1 August 2022. 
Following the appointment of Paul Keel, the Committee agreed 
and the Board supported that Sir George Buckley should be invited 
to remain as Chairman to oversee a period of significant strategic 
change for the Group. Board succession will continue to be a key 
focus during FY2023.

Tanya Fratto is stepping down from the Board at the conclusion 
of the 2022 AGM, and the Chairman led the search for a Non-
executive Director to replace her. The Committee recommended 
the appointment of Richard Howes to the Board, and he joined as 
a Non-executive Director on 1 September 2022. As with all Board 
appointments, there was a formal, rigorous and transparent 
process, involving all Directors and with recommendations based 
on the merit of the individual candidates. Buchanan Harvey & Co. 
were used as executive search consultants. The firm has no other 
connection to Smiths and is a signatory to the Voluntary Code of 
Conduct on Gender Diversity.

The Chairman and the Chief Executive Officer carried out the 
search process for the role of Chief Financial Officer without the 
formal support of an external search firm. Multiple candidates 
were considered. The Committee was intimately involved in this 
process and was regularly updated on progress. Clare Scherrer, 
who was well known to the Company, was identified as being 
the preferred candidate. Clare previously worked for Goldman 
Sachs where she spent more than 25 years and was a Partner 
for more than a decade, and most recently Co-Head of the Global 
Industrials business. Clare has extensive experience working 
with a broad range of industrial companies around the globe, 
accelerating growth and increasing value. She has particularly 
relevant experience in the sectors in which Smiths operates. 

NOMINATION & 
GOVERNANCE 
COMMITTEE 
REPORT

Chairman’s statement
I am pleased to present the Committee’s report for 
FY2022. The Committee has delegated responsibility 
from the Board to review the structure, size and 
composition of the Board and its Committees, and to 
ensure that they are fit for purpose.

The Board wholeheartedly supports the principles of the FTSE 
Women Leaders Review and the Parker Review on gender 
and ethnic diversity and we were delighted to recommend 
the appointment of a new Chief Financial Officer. We were 
also pleased to recommend a new Non-executive Director 
to the Board. When making these recommendations, we 
considered the balance of skills, knowledge and experience on 
the Board. Diversity of gender, social and ethnic background 
of the Directors are also important considerations along with 
country of origin to ensure the continued international diversity 
of the Board. We also take into account the Group’s strategy, 
business performance, current and future leadership needs, 
challenges and opportunities. 

We oversaw the senior management succession pipeline 
and planning and during the year we approved the appointment 
of seven new Executive Committee members. At least once a 
year we review senior management succession plans and the 
quality of the talent pipeline across the Group.

Periodically we review the Board’s governance framework. 
This year we recommended establishing the Science, 
Sustainability & Excellence Committee, and decided to change 
the terms of reference of the Remuneration Committee to ensure 
more focus on people. The Finance Committee was formalised 
and focuses on the sources and use of cash including portfolio 
activity, changes to capital structure and budgetary planning.

More information about our activities can be found on the following 
pages. I would like to thank my fellow Committee members for 
their continued hard work over the period.

Sir George W. Buckley
CHAIRMAN OF THE NOMINATION & GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY2022 
67

The Committee considered that it was in the best interests of 
the Group and its stakeholders to recommend to the Board that 
Clare Scherrer be appointed as Chief Financial Officer with effect 
from 29 April 2022. John Shipsey stepped down as Chief Financial 
Officer and from the Board of Smiths Group with effect from 
29 April 2022. His remuneration arrangements were approved by 
the Remuneration & People Committee. 

Diversity
Smiths Board is highly diverse. It supports the principles of the 
FTSE Women Leaders Review and Parker Review on gender and 
ethnic diversity and pays close attention to the international nature 
of its makeup. Members of the Board and senior management will 
collectively possess diversity of gender, national birthplace, social 
and ethnic backgrounds, cognitive and personal strengths, along 
with a combination of skills, experience and knowledge. This is 
important for the effective operation of the Board and oversight of 
the Group. 

The Committee is responsible for recommending appointments 
to the Board following its regular assessment of the Board and 
its Committees’ composition, whilst also considering the Group’s 
strategic objectives. The Committee makes recommendations 
based on the merit of the individual candidates, having due regard 
for the benefits of diversity in the broadest sense, including gender 
and ethnicity and also the need to ensure the effective functioning 
of the Board at all times, especially as membership of the Board 
is refreshed.

In order to help achieve these aspirations, the Committee only 
uses the services of executive search firms who have signed up to 
the Voluntary Code of Conduct on Gender Diversity. This applies 
to management positions, not just to the Board. Executive search 
firms are also required to ensure non-UK nationals, women and 
candidates from historically under-represented ethnic groups are 
represented on the shortlist for all Board positions. 

The Board meets all of its diversity targets, the FTSE Women 
Leaders Review target of 40% representation of women on FTSE 
350 Boards, the Parker Review recommendation for FTSE 100 
companies to have one director of ethnic diversity, and the Financial 
Conduct Authority’s Listing Rule whereby at least one senior board 
position is held by a woman. 

Diversity information for the Board, Executive Committee, senior 
managers and the Group as a whole can be found on page 33. 
The Board extends its work on diversity to senior leadership 
positions in the business and across the Group. The Board Diversity 
Policy was reviewed during the year and can be found on our 
website www.smiths.com.

Governance
The Committee is responsible for keeping the Board’s governance 
framework under review. In FY2022 the Committee recommended 
the establishment of the Science, Sustainability & Excellence 
Committee to oversee the Group’s approach to science, 
sustainability and excellence, including R&D, commercialisation, 
and sustainability strategies. It also reviewed the operation of the 
Remuneration Committee and its oversight of the Group’s wider 
People-related activities, and recommended its evolution into the 
Remuneration & People Committee. In addition the Committee 
recommended the evolution of the Transaction Committee into the 
Finance Committee, with responsibility for oversight of the Group’s 
sources and uses of cash including portfolio activity, changes to 
capital structure and budgetary planning. 

During the year the Committee reviewed the Board skills and 
experience matrix, Board Diversity Policy and its own Terms of 
Reference. The Committee also considered Director engagement 
with stakeholders, including the workforce, before this 
responsibility moved to the Remuneration & People Committee.

Induction
To ensure that they are able to effectively contribute to discussions 
and decision-making, all of our Directors participate in an induction 
programme on joining the Board. Each induction plan is tailored to 
provide the individual Director with the necessary knowledge and 
understanding of the Group, based on their personal experience 
and background. Given her already extensive knowledge of Smiths, 
for Clare Scherrer this included meeting with key stakeholders 
including investors, advisers, the external auditor KPMG and 
receiving briefings on the role and responsibilities of being a listed 
company director. Clare Scherrer has also visited numerous Group 
operations in the US and Europe. The induction programme for 
Richard Howes has similarly been tailored to his experience and is 
currently underway. 

Diversity Performance

BIRTHPLACE OR BACKGROUND

GENDER

ETHNICITY

Policy target: 50%

Policy target: 40%

Policy target: 1

  Outside the UK

  UK

64%

36%

  Female

  Male

  Current composition

2

45%

55%

Policy target
At least 50% of the Board with a birthplace  
or background outside of the UK

Correct as at 16 September 2022.

Policy target
At least 40% of the Board to be female

Policy target by 2025
At least one of the Chairman, Senior Independent 
Director, Chief Executive Officer or Chief 
Financial Officer position will be held by 
a female

Current composition
Female Chief Financial Officer

Policy target
At least one Director from a historically under-
represented ethnic group

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY2022 
68

Conflicts of interest 
All of our Directors must avoid situations where they have a direct 
or indirect interest that conflicts, or may possibly conflict, with the 
best interests of Smiths. The Board has the authority to authorise 
conflicts and potential conflicts in accordance with our Articles of 
Association and the Companies Act 2006 (Act), and Board approval 
must be granted before a Director accepts a new external 
appointment, whether it amounts to a conflict or not. The Company 
Secretary maintains a Register of Conflicts which is reviewed by 
the Directors at least twice a year, and the Board retains the power 
to vary or terminate any authorisation previously provided.

Director election and re-election
Each year Smiths Directors are subject to election or re-
election by shareholders at our Annual General Meeting (AGM). 
Our Chairman, on behalf of the Board, has confirmed that each 
Non-executive Director standing for re-election at this year’s 
AGM continues to be an effective member of the Board, and has 
demonstrated the commitment required. The Senior Independent 
Director has confirmed that the Chairman continues to be effective 
and supports his re-election to the Board at the AGM. The rules 
regarding the appointment and replacement of Directors are 
determined by our Articles of Association and the Act. The Articles 
of Association can be found on our website and can only be 
amended by a special resolution of shareholders.

Information and training
The Board recognises the importance of ongoing training and 
our Directors are given the opportunity to update their skills and 
experience on a regular basis. Any individual development needs 
are discussed with the Directors at the annual performance 
evaluation. In order for the Directors to remain aware of business 
priorities and external developments, the Board is provided with 
formal reports and updates from the divisions, functional leaders 
and external advisers on a regular basis. 

Further to the sale of Smiths Medical to ICU, in which the Group 
holds a 10% stake, Bill Seeger was provided with specific training 
in connection with his duties as a US Company Director and 
potential conflicts of interest between ICU and Smiths.

In order to operate effectively our Directors must receive accurate, 
timely and high-quality information. The Company Secretary 
and his team assist the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer in 
ensuring effective information flows and that the Board is provided 
with all relevant information to enable the Directors to discharge 
their responsibilities. 

Independence and objectivity
The Board keeps the independence of the Non-executive Directors 
under continuous review. In July 2022, the Committee reviewed the 
guidance contained in the Code and assessed the performance and 
independence of each of the Non-executive Directors. It concluded 
that each of them contributed effectively to the operation of the 
Board and that they should all be considered as independent. 

Tanya Fratto was appointed as a Director on 1 July 2012 and as she 
had served on the Board for more than nine years a particularly 
rigorous review of her performance was undertaken. The Board 
concluded that she contributed to constructive challenge and 
debate at meetings and that she continues to demonstrate the 
qualities of objectivity and independence. It is anticipated that 
Tanya Fratto will step down from the Board at the 2022 AGM. 
Having served on the Board for more than six years, Bill Seeger 
and Mark Seligman’s continued objectivity and independence were 
also subject to rigorous review. It was agreed that they continue to 
be independent and objective. Having served on the Board for more 
than six years, the Board also considered and confirmed that Sir 
George Buckley continues to be objective.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202269

Our external auditor, KPMG, continues to provide robust challenge 
to management and provides its independent view to the 
Committee on specific financial reporting judgements and the 
control environment. 

I’d like to thank my colleagues on the Committee for their 
contribution during the year and I look forward to continuing our 
work in FY2023.

Mark Seligman
CHAIRMAN OF THE AUDIT & RISK COMMITTEE

Committee membership and meetings
All members of the Committee are independent Non-executive 
Directors and collectively have recent and relevant financial, 
accounting and sector experience. Committee member biographies 
and attendance at meetings during the year can be found on 
pages 58, 59 and 63. The Board considers that Mark Seligman 
has the recent and relevant financial experience required to chair 
the Committee. 

At the invitation of the Chairman of the Committee, and in order to 
maintain effective communications, the Chairman, Chief Executive 
Officer and Chief Financial Officer and an audit partner of KPMG 
attended all meetings. Other regular attendees included the 
Group Financial Controller, the Director of Internal Audit, Senior 
Vice President and General Counsel, Ethics and Compliance, the 
Company Secretary and Deputy Secretary. Divisional Presidents, 
the Vice President Finance Excellence and senior management 
were also invited to attend as appropriate. PwC, as the auditor of 
Smiths Medical, also attended one Committee meeting. At the 
conclusion of meetings, KPMG and the Director of Internal Audit 
were each given the opportunity to discuss matters with the 
Committee without executive management being present.

The heads of Internal Audit and Ethics and Compliance, together 
with KPMG, have direct access to the Committee should they wish 
to raise any concerns outside formal Committee meetings. 

The Committee works to a structured programme of activities and 
meetings to coincide with key events around our financial calendar 
and, on behalf of the Board, to provide oversight of the Group’s 
risk management and internal control process. The Chairman of 
the Committee reports formally to the Board on the Committee’s 
activities after each meeting.

Committee performance evaluation
Through the annual Board evaluation process, see pages 64 
and 65, the Board has again confirmed the effectiveness of this 
Committee in its role of supporting the Board in compliance with 
its duties.

AUDIT, RISK AND INTERNAL CONTROL

AUDIT & RISK 
COMMITTEE 
REPORT

Chairman’s statement
I am pleased to present the Committee’s report for 
FY2022. The Committee fulfils an important oversight role, 
monitoring the integrity of the Group’s financial reporting 
and the effectiveness of its system of internal control and 
risk management framework. 

The membership of the Committee has recently changed. 
We welcomed Richard Howes to the Committee following his 
appointment to the Board on 1 September 2022. Tanya Fratto will 
be stepping down from the Board and therefore the Committee 
after the AGM in November. I would like to commend Tanya’s 
membership over many years. 

The Committee met four times during the year. Each meeting 
agenda included a range of topics across the Committee’s areas of 
responsibility, including:

–  Consideration of financial reporting matters at each meeting. 
At the March meeting the Committee reviewed the half-year 
results announcement and at the September meeting we 
reviewed the Annual Report and accompanying materials, prior 
to the release of the Group’s results. Our work included reviewing 
the material judgements and issues, including the treatment of 
the sale of Smiths Medical and the discontinuation of the Group’s 
operations in Russia, the results of impairment testing and the 
going concern and long-term viability assessments.

–  We performed deep-dive reviews on our principal risks 
including supply chain, product quality, customers and 
contractual obligations. Divisional Presidents and their teams 
attended Committee meetings on a rotational basis and 
presented their risk registers and principal risk deep-dives. 
This allowed the Committee to gain an understanding of the 
culture and risks present throughout the organisation. 

–  Our Finance Excellence Programme, particularly in relation 

to internal controls, continues to be a focus for the Committee 
and we are monitoring potential developments in relation to the 
audit and governance reforms, as well as how we might respond 
to changes in regulation. 

–  Behaving ethically and with integrity is a fundamental part of our 
Values. The Senior Vice President and General Counsel, Ethics 
and Compliance attended our March and September Committee 
meetings and provided updates on our Ethics and Compliance 
(E&C) programme. Our E&C programme focuses on higher risk 
and critical areas such as bribery and corruption, human rights, 
international trade and privacy/data protection. We receive 
a report on data compiled from ‘Speak Out’, our confidential 
reporting hotline, and any material investigations. 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202270

Committee activities

Financial and narrative reporting
The Committee reviewed the full and half yearly results 
announcements, the Annual Report and the viability and going 
concern statements before recommending them to the Board 
for approval. 

The Group has internal control and risk management 
arrangements in place to support the financial reporting 
process which provide reasonable assurance that the financial 
statements are prepared in accordance with applicable standards. 
These arrangements included seeking divisional confirmation that 
the reported information gives a true and fair view of the results 
for the period and ensuring that record keeping allows an accurate 
and fair reflection of transactions. More information on risk 
management and internal controls can be found on page 73.

An important responsibility of the Committee is to review and 
agree the most significant management accounting estimates 
and judgements which impact the financial statements. The key 
areas of judgement in the year are set out on pages 71 and 72. 
After receiving reports on the significant estimates and areas 
of judgement and after discussion with KPMG, the Committee 
agreed that the judgements made were appropriate and correctly 
reflected and presented in the Annual Report. 

Fair, balanced and understandable
The Committee applied the same due diligence approach adopted 
in previous years in order to assess whether the Annual Report is 
fair, balanced and understandable, one of the key UK Corporate 
Governance Code requirements. This included being updated 
on the internal verification process carried out to support the 
Committee’s assessment of the disclosures made in the Annual 
Report. The Committee also reviewed various materials on 
risk management and internal controls, going concern and 
the assessment of the Group’s long-term viability. In doing so 
it considered:

–  the accuracy, integrity and consistency of the messages 

conveyed in the Annual Report;

–  the appropriateness of the level of detail in the 

narrative reporting;

–  the correlation between judgements, estimation of uncertainties 

and issues and the associated disclosures; and

–  the explanations of the differences between statutory and 

headline reported results.

Taking the above into account, together with the views expressed 
by KPMG, the Committee recommended, and in turn the Board 
confirmed, that the 2022 Annual Report, taken as a whole, is 
fair, balanced and understandable and provides the necessary 
information for shareholders to assess the Company’s position, 
performance, business model and strategy.

External audit
The Committee places great importance on the quality, 
effectiveness and independence of the external audit process. 
Following a tender process KPMG was appointed as the 
Company’s external auditor at the 2019 Annual General Meeting. 
Michael Maloney, the KPMG audit partner responsible for the 
Company’s audit since 2019 will retire following the completion 
of the FY2022 audit. Further to an extensive selection process 
overseen by the Chairman of the Committee, Michael Barradell 
will be appointed as the lead engagement partner for the next 

financial year. His tenure will be limited to five years in line with audit 
standards and due to KPMG partner rotation policies.

The Committee confirms that the Company has complied with 
the provisions of the Statutory Audit Services Order 2014 relating 
to the UK audit market for large companies throughout the year 
under review and as at the date of this report.

Scope of the external audit plan and fee proposal
At its November 2021 meeting the Committee reviewed and 
approved KPMG’s proposed audit plan. The fee for the FY2022 
audit was agreed in July 2022. The Committee continued to 
monitor KPMG’s execution of the 2022 audit plan during the year. 

Smiths Medical
Due to PwC’s understanding of Smiths Medical’s financial 
reporting and internal control environment and the work necessary 
to support the separation of that business, PwC continued to act 
as the auditor for Smiths Medical until the sale of the business on 
6 January 2022. PwC provided an update to the Committee at its 
September 2021 meeting.

Independence and objectivity
The Committee is responsible for the implementation and 
monitoring of the Group’s policies on external audit, which 
are designed to maintain the objectivity and safeguard the 
independence of the external auditor. These policies are reviewed 
annually. They cover the engagement of the external auditor for 
non-audit services and the appointment by the Group of former 
employees of the external auditor. 

In addition to monitoring compliance with Group policies, the 
Committee’s review of KPMG’s independence included examining 
written confirmation from KPMG that they remained independent 
and objective within the context of applicable professional 
standards and considering the performance of the audit 
engagement partner. 

Non-audit services
Notwithstanding developing practice being adopted by audit firms 
not to provide non-audit services to audit clients, the Committee 
recognises that certain permissible non-audit services can be 
completed more efficiently by, and be purchased more cost-
effectively from, the incumbent auditor due to the audit firm’s 
existing knowledge of the Group and its systems. Under the policy 
approved by the Committee, it has delegated its responsibility for 
authorising the purchase of non-audit services from the external 
auditor to the Chairman of the Committee and/or the Chief 
Financial Officer within specific limits.

Details of the fees paid to KPMG for the year ended 31 July 
2022 can be found in note 2 of the financial statements on page 
120. Non-audit fees as a percentage of audit fees totalled 11% 
(FY2021: 13%). Non-audit fees comprise audit related assurance 
services and fees in connection with the sale of Smiths Medical.

The Group would not expect in the ordinary course of business for 
non-audit fees to exceed 20% of the average of the previous three 
years’ total Group audit fees unless exceptional circumstances 
existed. The Committee confirms that the non-audit work 
performed by KPMG, which included work in preparation for 
the separation of Smiths Medical during the year, was properly 
assessed and authorised in accordance with the Group’s policy.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202271

SIGNIFICANT FINANCIAL REPORTING MATTERS

The key areas of judgement for FY2022 are as follows:

Areas of focus

Actions taken

MEDICAL DISPOSAL ACCOUNTING

On 6 January 2022, the Group completed the 
sale of Smiths Medical to ICU Medical, Inc. (ICU). 
As part of the sale the Group has incurred and 
provided for separation expenses, that arise from 
contractual and commercial obligations due to 
the separation, and has retained a 10% holding in 
ICU and received $100m of deferred contingent 
consideration, the values of which are dependent 
on the ICU share price.

REVENUE RECOGNITION

Smiths Detection and Smiths Interconnect have 
multi-year contractual arrangements for the sale 
of goods and services. Estimates are required 
at the Balance Sheet date when determining 
the stage of completion of contracts for 
revenue recognition. 

TAXATION

The Group has extensive international operations 
and in the normal course of business the 
Directors make judgements and estimates in 
relation to potential tax exposures.

The Committee considered the constituent elements of the separation expenses 
included within the net gain on sale of Smiths Medical and reviewed the 
appropriateness of the provisions made relating to the sale and the transition 
services being provided by Smiths Group to Smiths Medical. 

The Committee reviewed the financial reporting treatment and the basis for 
determining the fair value of the deferred contingent consideration, which 
has been classified as a financial asset at fair value through profit and loss. 
The 31 July 2022 ICU share price of circa $177 (6 January 2022: $231) was 23% 
down from when the sale completed. This reduction in share price has resulted 
in Smiths recognising fair value losses through the Income Statement and Other 
Comprehensive Income. See notes 14 and 27 of the financial statements.

The Committee reviewed management’s revenue recognition judgements. 
The Committee noted that the timing of revenue recognition involves judgements 
as to when control of an asset passes to the customer or, particularly in Smiths 
Detection and Smiths Interconnect, as to the stage of completion of contract 
activity and whether the separate performance obligations have been fulfilled. 
The Committee reviewed and concurred with management’s conclusions on 
the significant judgements for complex programmes and contract accounting. 
See note 1 of the financial statements.

The assets and liabilities recognised in income and deferred tax, as well as the 
treatment of losses in the UK, were assessed. Particular focus was given to the 
recognition of UK deferred tax assets; deferred tax assets relating to the John 
Crane, Inc. asbestos provision; and the Titeflex Corporation CSST provision. 
The Committee noted the ongoing tax audits that are likely to conclude in 
the next 12 to 24 months, and the uncertainty associated with their outcome. 
The Committee noted that the final outcome may vary significantly from the 
amounts currently provided for tax risks. See note 6 of the financial statements.

IMPAIRMENT – INTANGIBLE ASSETS (INCLUDING GOODWILL) AND RUSSIA

The Group holds a significant amount of goodwill, 
especially in relation to the Smiths Detection cash 
generating unit (CGU).

The intangible assets and the assumptions used to justify their carrying values 
were reviewed, including the applicable discount rate used for impairment 
testing purposes. 

Smiths Detection was the Group’s only CGU where the impairment headroom was 
more limited for FY2022 and where a plausible downside scenario or a reasonable 
change in key assumptions could cause the carrying value of the CGU to exceed 
its recoverable value. Smiths Detection’s limited impairment headroom is driven 
by a lower starting point from the FY2022 outturn, reflecting a difficult market 
subsequent to COVID-19 that has impacted its aviation security customers, an 
increased discount rate driven by the macroeconomic hurdles in FY2022 and the 
impact of temporary supply chain issues. Earnings growth within the impairment 
model is from the lower FY2022 base position and the CGU recoverable amount 
exceeded its carrying value - therefore no impairment was necessary.  The 
Committee has reviewed the additional disclosures made around this impairment 
review. See note 11 of the financial statements.

As announced with the HY2022 interim results, the Group suspended sales into 
Russia. The Committee agreed with the Russia impairment charge and related 
wind down costs. The Committee has also agreed that these items are material 
in quantum and should be separately disclosed through the non-headline items 
within the income statement. See note 3 of the financial statements.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202272

Areas of focus

Actions taken

PROVISIONS FOR LIABILITIES AND CHARGES

The Group holds significant material provisions 
for John Crane, Inc. asbestos resolution; and the 
Titeflex Corporation CSST product claims.

POST-RETIREMENT BENEFITS

The Group has material pension plan assets 
and liabilities and there is a high degree of 
estimation uncertainty.

The Committee considered the appropriateness of the level of the provisions 
held against John Crane, Inc. asbestos litigation and the Titeflex Corporation 
CSST claims. In particular, the Committee considered the treatment of 
potential liabilities, the changes to the assumptions made in calculating 
the provisions, sensitivities to changes in assumptions and advice received 
from the Group’s specialist external advisers. The Committee agreed the 
continued appropriateness of the ten-year time period for John Crane, Inc. 
asbestos litigation. In the case of the John Crane, Inc. asbestos litigation, the 
Committee also agreed with the judgement that, whilst large numbers of claims 
are made against John Crane, Inc. and other defendants every year, due to both 
known and as yet unknown developments in the US legal system and other events 
that will impact the asbestos legal environment, a sufficiently reliable estimate 
cannot be made to cover the full period over which it is expected that costs will 
be incurred. In both these cases, it was determined that the assumptions fairly 
reflect the position. See note 23 of the financial statements.

The Committee reviewed the financial reporting treatment for the final TI Group 
Pension Scheme (TIGPS) bulk annuity buy-in. This buy-in has been secured with 
a commitment to fully buy-out the Scheme over the next few years so has been 
accounted for as a settlement, with the resulting settlement loss and past service 
cost shown in the Group’s income statement in FY2022. A surplus restriction has 
been applied to the remaining Scheme assets to bring the net surplus to zero. 

The Committee has also reviewed and agreed the methods, assumptions and 
benchmarks used by the actuaries to calculate the position of the UK and US 
schemes at 31 July 2022, which have continued to show a net accounting surplus 
position which has been reduced by £219m in FY2022. 

The Committee agreed the treatment and the corresponding disclosures on these 
matters. See note 8 of the financial statements.

PRESENTATION OF HEADLINE PROFITS AND ORGANIC GROWTH

The Group presents headline profits and organic 
growth measures which require adjustment to 
IFRS required data. This is a material judgement 
and requires a consistent application of the 
Group’s accounting policy on this topic.

The Committee considered the policy, presentation and judgements in relation 
to the Group’s performance, in particular the separation of headline and non-
headline items. This included the consideration of which items related to the 
Group’s ongoing trading activity or those which should be recorded as non-
headline. 

The Committee reviewed the appropriate level of disclosure for the impairment 
charge recognised in FY2022 against the Group’s Russian businesses and related 
wind down costs. The Committee agreed that the combined impairment charge 
required separate presentation as a non-headline item.

In addition, the Committee also considered those judgements in connection 
with items to be reflected or adjusted in organic performance. See note 3 of the 
financial statements.

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Effectiveness of the Group’s risk management  
and internal controls
In FY2022, the Committee, on behalf of the Board and with the 
assistance of the Internal Audit function, monitored, reviewed and 
assessed the effectiveness of the Group’s risk management and 
internal control systems in the context of the Group’s strategy, 
business model and risk appetite. 

Deep-dives were carried out during the year on the following 
principal risks. The principal risks have since been updated as 
detailed on page 47:

–  Product quality – John Crane, Smiths Detection and Flex-Tek
–  Customers – Smiths Detection and Smiths Interconnect
–  Supply chain – John Crane and Flex-Tek
–  Contractual obligations 

Consideration of the risk registers alongside the principal 
risk deep-dives and other thematic risk areas enables the 
Committee and full Board to understand the culture, risks and 
opportunities and assurance processes throughout the business 
and the potential impact on the Group. No significant failings 
or weaknesses were identified. 

The Committee were also provided with updates in relation to the 
Finance Excellence Programme particularly in relation to projects 
to improve and standardise finance activity across the Group 
and ongoing activity to improve general IT controls. They also 
monitored the potential development of audit and governance 
reforms and how the business might respond to changes 
in regulation.

Principal risks update
The Committee carried out a robust assessment of the principal 
risks facing the Group, including those that would threaten its 
business model, future performance, solvency and liquidity. 
We have refreshed the FY2022 principal risks to reflect the critical 
risks facing the business and the following changes were made: 

–  Growth and ESG have been added as principal risks
–  Group portfolio risk has been removed with the completion of 

the sale of Smiths Medical 

–  A number of risks, including COVID-19 and Integrated supply 
chain, have been combined into a Business continuity risk

–  Ethical breach and Contractual obligations have merged into a 

Legal and compliance risk 

–  Customers and markets risks have merged into a 

Commercial risk 

A description of the principal risks facing the Group and how these 
were reviewed to assess the Group’s viability can be found on 
pages 47 to 53.

Effectiveness of the external audit
The Committee continually assessed the effectiveness of the 
external auditor during the year, including its independence, 
objectivity, appropriate mindset and professional scepticism. 
The Committee considered:

–  the conclusion of the FY2021 audit process 
–  the review of audit plans
–  content, insight and value of KPMG’s reports 
–  robustness and perceptiveness of KPMG in handling of key 

accounting and audit judgements

–  management’s responses to any audit findings
–  discussions with management (both with and without the 
external auditor present) and with the external auditor 
(both with and without management present)

–  the findings of the FRC’s 2022 Audit Quality Inspection Report 
with KPMG to understand the activities being undertaken to 
address the findings and KPMG’s position regarding the various 
areas of audit reform which are currently under review

As FY2022 was KPMG’s third year as the Group’s external auditor, 
the Committee paid particular attention to ensuring that it was 
satisfied that the Committee’s and management’s feedback from 
previous effectiveness reviews had been adequately addressed. 
This included the close out of previously discussed audit matters. 
In addition it also considered other statutory reporting, audit 
planning and scope deliverables, and that KPMG had continued to 
devote sufficient time and resources to understand and assess the 
business, its key risks and controls. 

Prior to the sale of Smiths Medical, the Smiths Medical business 
continued to be audited by PwC. The Committee also considered 
the effectiveness of the process whereby KPMG was able to 
achieve comfort from PwC on its work for that division in respect 
of the FY2021 financial statements.

After taking into account the factors above and its general 
interaction with KPMG throughout the period, the Committee 
was satisfied that the audit was effective. The Committee 
therefore agreed that it was appropriate to recommend to the 
Board that the reappointment of KPMG as the Company’s auditor 
for a further year be proposed to shareholders at the 2022 AGM. 
A further review of the FY2022 audit will be conducted ahead 
of the FY2023 half year results.

Risk management and internal control
The Board is responsible for ensuring that sound risk 
management and internal control systems are in place. 
The Executive Committee is responsible for designing the risk 
management and internal control systems and ensuring they are 
effectively deployed throughout the Group. The internal control 
system is a framework to manage risks and monitor compliance 
with procedures. It is designed to meet the Group’s particular 
needs and the risks to which it is exposed. However, it can provide 
only reasonable, not absolute, assurance against material loss to 
the Group or material misstatement in the financial statements. 
More detail can be found on pages 46 to 53.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202274

Ethics and compliance
During the year, the Committee reviewed the Ethics and 
Compliance annual work programme and provided oversight of 
investigations into allegations of non-compliance with the Code of 
Business Ethics. This included matters raised through the Group’s 
ethics reporting procedures including the Group’s ‘Speak- Out’ 
hotline which allows for anonymous reporting. Smiths ‘Speak 
Out’ hotline comprises a number of different channels (including 
call centres operated by an independent third party across the 
Group’s global operations) for employees and other stakeholders 
to report concerns.

During the year there were no matters raised that required 
the Committee’s direct intervention or investigations which 
resulted in a material loss to the Group or a detrimental impact 
on our customers or suppliers. The Committee receives regular 
reports on the total number and nature of cases by region, the 
ratio of anonymous vs attributed ethics reports, and the ratio 
of substantiated vs unsubstantiated cases. The anonymous 
vs attributed metric is used to monitor trust in the Group’s 
reporting system. Accordingly, the Committee considered that 
the Group’s processes and arrangements for employees to report 
concerns, including anonymously and without retaliation, about 
any improprieties and the arrangements for any subsequent 
investigation as necessary, were both appropriate and effective.

During the year, the Committee provided oversight of a number 
of areas targeted by the Ethics and Compliance work programme. 
More information on the Group’s approach to Ethics and 
Compliance can be found on page 34 and in the Sustainability at 
Smiths report found on our website.

Assessment of internal control and 
risk management arrangements
The Committee was satisfied that the Group’s processes 
governing financial reporting and controls, its culture, ethical 
standards and its relationships with stakeholders continued 
to be effective.

The Committee was also satisfied with the appropriateness 
and adequacy of the Group’s risk management arrangements, 
internal control framework and three lines of defence model.

Internal Audit
Internal Audit is independent of the business and so has no 
responsibility for operational business management. This ensures 
the integrity and objectivity of its annual Audit Plan, which is 
approved by the Committee. The authority of the Internal Audit 
function is derived from the Committee. The Director of Internal 
Audit is accountable to the Board through the Committee 
Chairman, although administratively the Director of Internal Audit 
reports to the Chief Financial Officer. 

In order to carry out the responsibilities, as set out in a charter 
approved by the Committee, the Internal Audit function has:

–  full and unrestricted access to all records, property 

and personnel;

–  independent access to the Committee Chairman and members 

of the Committee;

–  the right to request meetings with the Committee; and
–  the authority and obligation to report significant findings 

or other concerns to the Committee.

During the period, the Committee received progress reports 
on the execution of the FY2022 Internal Audit Plan and discussed 
any high priority control enhancement opportunities and 
action plans to address these. The Committee also approved 
the FY2023 Internal Audit Plan, including the proposed audit 
scope, approach, coverage and budget including the allocation 
of resources.

The Committee oversees the performance of the Internal 
Audit function through the Director of Internal Audit’s 
attendance at Committee meetings, review of work presented 
throughout the course of the year, and a review of agreed 
KPIs which are reported to the Committee at each Committee 
meeting. The Committee also considered the results of an 
anonymous survey circulated to the Audit & Risk Committee, 
senior management and the Group’s external auditor on the 
performance of the function during the year. Overall, Internal 
Audit is seen as a valued assurance function throughout 
the Group. It is appropriately resourced and conforms with 
industry standards in its approach.

In accordance with the International Standards for the 
Professional Practice of Internal Auditing, the assessment 
of the Internal Audit function is required to be carried out by 
an independent third party at least every five years. The last 
independent third-party assessment was carried out in 2018. 
The next independent third-party assessment will take place 
during FY2023.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202275

Business context for FY2022
We have made good progress this year with a renewed focus 
on technology and new product development.  Following the 
successful sale of Smiths Medical, we have an ambitious growth 
strategy which will amplify Smiths post the Medical sale.  Our 
Remuneration Policy is strongly aligned to the priorities in the 
Smiths Value Engine and our AIP and LTIP metrics for FY2023 
outlined later in this statement are designed to support this.  

We have not been immune to the macroeconomic challenges 
including the COVID-19 pandemic, but we have shown resilience 
in the face of these challenges and continue to be agile to maintain 
the performance of the business and support our people and 
communities. Organic revenue growth has been ahead of 
expectations and we have delivered five consecutive quarters 
of growth.  This has been supported by stronger execution and 
operational resilience.  Inspiring and empowering our people has 
been an important element of building this momentum.   

Shareholder consultation
We are conscious of the competitive global environment for 
executive talent.  During the year, we reached out to major 
shareholders to discuss their views on the introduction of an 
additional share plan designed to reward superior performance 
over a five-year period, in line with the strategy announced at 
the Capital Markets Event in November 2021.  Feedback from 
shareholders was that they were sympathetic to this objective 
but preferred the simplicity of delivery within the parameters of 
the current Remuneration Policy.  We were delighted to have the 
opportunity to talk and would like to thank shareholders for the 
feedback provided. 

Board changes
In April 2022 we announced the appointment of Clare Scherrer as 
Chief Financial Officer, alongside a number of executive leadership 
appointments, continuing the good progress made over recent 
years in positioning the Company for the future.  Clare was 
appointed on a salary of £553,750, which will be next reviewed 
in October 2023, and a pension allowance in line with the rate 
available to the wider UK workforce.  Her incentive arrangements 
and benefits entitlement are in line with the Remuneration Policy.  

A summary of the remuneration for the outgoing Chief Financial 
Officer is provided on page 83.  

Implementation for FY2023
The Board is conscious of the challenging impact of current 
inflationary pressures on our colleagues and this is reflected in the 
management decision to focus more of the salary increase budget 
on those sectors of the workforce which are more significantly 
affected. Paul Keel’s salary has been increased by 2.5% and is 
effective from 1 October 2022.  The increase is in line with senior 
management and is below the increment for the wider workforce.  
Clare Scherrer’s salary will remain unchanged for FY2023.

We continue to assess and evolve how our sustainability strategy 
should be reflected within our remuneration framework.  
Following careful consideration by the Committee, we will be 
introducing new objectives within the Annual Incentive Plan (AIP) 
for FY2023, aligned to our strategy and the commitments made at 
the November 2021 Capital Markets event. 

REMUNERATION 
& PEOPLE 
COMMITTEE 
REPORT

Our objectives are to create clear alignment between 
remuneration and sustainable, long-term stakeholder 
interests. We take account of shareholder views and ensure 
that performance supports the delivery of business strategy 
through targeting our key performance indicators (KPIs).

Chairman’s statement
I am pleased to present the Remuneration Report for the year 
to 31 July 2022.   This will be my fourth year as Chairman of the 
Committee.  In this time we have adapted our Policy to align 
with stakeholder expectations and guidelines whilst ensuring 
it supports business strategy.  We have also been mindful of 
unprecedented sociopolitical pressures. 

The Directors’ Remuneration Policy was approved at the AGM 
on 17 November 2021. The Directors’ Remuneration Report for 
FY2022 will be put to an advisory shareholder vote at the 2022 
AGM on 16 November 2022. I look forward to your continued 
support at the upcoming AGM.

Remuneration & People Committee
During FY2022 we took the important step of expanding the 
responsibilities of the Committee to include overseeing the 
implementation of the People strategy and, as necessary, make 
recommendations to the Board regarding changes to or approval 
of the strategy.  

The broader Remuneration & People Committee now oversees 
the process for the Group’s talent strategy and the development 
of a diverse pipeline of succession below senior management.  
Responsibility extends to the Group’s diversity, equity and inclusion 
strategy and approach to workforce engagement including 
reviewing the results of the employee engagement survey and the 
related action plans.  

There is a programme of Board engagement activities to enable 
the Non-Executive Directors to have regular dialogue with 
colleagues across the Group to inform their view of employee 
engagement and ensure well-being policies and programmes 
are effective.  

The Committee remains responsible for the Group’s overall 
remuneration strategy, overseeing the Group’s Remuneration 
Policy for Directors and senior management. The Committee 
seeks to achieve a strategy that attracts, motivates and retains 
executive management of the quality required to run the Group 
successfully. The strategy promotes the long-term success of 
Smiths, while reflecting the views of all stakeholders.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY2022REMUNERATION & PEOPLE COMMITTEE REPORT

76

For the FY2023 AIP, we will introduce two new performance 
metrics based on reductions in energy usage across the business 
and revenue from new product programmes, including our 
sustainable products. The new measures will each have a 
weighting of 10%. This builds on the quantifiable and measurable 
Scope 1 and 2 Greenhouse gas reduction metrics incorporated 
in our Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP), driving achievement 
of our commitment to Net Zero emissions from operations by 
2040.  There will no longer be a personal objectives metric in AIP, 
reinforcing the focus on team performance.  

Committee performance evaluation
The annual evaluation of the Committee was conducted as part 
of the internally facilitated evaluation process of the Board and 
its Committees. The findings relating to the Committee were 
discussed with me. More information can be found on page 64. 
Overall, the Committee is viewed as effective and performing well 
and is rigorous in discharging its responsibilities. 

There were three scheduled Committee meetings held during the 
year and one special meeting.

Looking forward
The Committee will continue its focus on all stakeholder groups 
and the wider workforce when discussing executive pay strategy.  
It will also consider the broader impact of non-financial measures 
such as Smiths Leadership Behaviours and how these should be 
reflected in remuneration decisions.  In particular the Committee 
will seek to assess how the macroeconomic environment is 
impacting the market for global talent and the search for talent 
will continue to be a priority as we grow. 

Bill Seeger 
CHAIRMAN OF THE REMUNERATION & PEOPLE COMMITTEE

Other activities of the Committee in FY2022
In addition to those highlighted elsewhere in this statement, the 
Committee has also undertaken the following activities in FY2022

–  Reviewed business plans and performance to assess their 

potential impact on existing and future incentive arrangements

–  Reviewed remuneration of the wider workforce and related 

policies to ensure internal alignment of reward

–  Approved FY2023 salary increases for the Executive Committee 
considering available budget, individual performance rating and 
position in salary range

–  Reviewed the Committee’s performance and Terms of Reference
–  Approved the Remuneration Report for inclusion in the 

Annual Report

–  Approved the service contracts of the Executive Directors

Committee membership and meetings
The membership of the Committee and their meeting attendance 
during the year is set out on pages 58, 59 and 60 of this report. 
I had served on a remuneration committee for at least 12 months 
prior to my appointment as Remuneration Committee Chairman.

Sir George Buckley is absent when his own remuneration as 
Chairman of the Board is under consideration.

The Chief Executive attends meetings of the Committee by 
invitation but he is not involved in the determination of his own 
remuneration, or present during consideration of any changes 
to it.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY2022EXECUTIVE REMUNERATION AT A GLANCE

IMPLEMENTATION OF REMUNERATION POLICY IN FY2022

77

Pension and benefits

–  Pensions contributions of 12% of base salary for Paul Keel 

and Clare Scherrer, in line with the rate available to the wider 
UK workforce. John Shipsey received contributions of 20.5%

–  Benefits included healthcare, insurance, car benefit and 

relocation benefits for the CEO.

Base salary

Paul Keel received:

£875,000

Clare Scherrer received: 

£140,567

John Shipsey (former CFO) received:

£551,496

Annual bonus (AIP)

Long term incentive (LTIP)

Total bonus payout (% of maximum):

Total vesting (% of maximum):

Paul Keel: 

Clare Scherrer: 

John Shipsey: 

38.8%

38.8%

37.8%

Paul Keel: 

N/A

Clare Scherrer: 

John Shipsey: 

N/A

14.1%

Threshold
(25% payout)

Maximum
(100% payout)

Achievement

Threshold
(25% payout)

Maximum
(100% payout)

Vesting

Operating profit
(40%)

£459m

£464m

£502m

Organic revenue
growth (30%)

£2,784m

£2,926m

£2,832m

Headline operating cash conversion (20%)

93%

H1 (10%)

FY (10%)

Personal objectives
(10%)*

90%

81%
95%

0%

110%

115%

9%
10%

* Personal objectives outturn for John Shipsey was 8% of maximum

SINGLE FIGURE (£000)

Paul Keel

Clare Scherrer

John Shipsey

12.8%

13.8%

3.2%

0.0%

9.0%

Organic revenue
growth (30%)

0.6%

3%

6%

0%

Group EPS growth
after tax (25%)

1.8%

4% p.a.

11% p.a.

0%

Average ROCE
(20%)

Average headline
operating cash
conversion (25%)

Total

13.7%

15% p.a.

18% p.a.

0%

96%

90%

105%

14.1%

14.1%

£1,832

£256

£1,257

£0

£500

£1,000

£1,500

£2,000

Salary

Pension and benefits

Annual bonus

Long term incentives

Salary

Pension and benefits

Annual bonus

Long term incentives

Paul Keel

Clare Scherrer

John Shipsey

875
279
678
-

141
24
91
-

551
139
344
223

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY2022EXECUTIVE REMUNERATION AT A GLANCE

78

STATEMENT OF IMPLEMENTATION OF REMUNERATION POLICY IN FY2023

Base salary

Paul Keel: 

£896,875 

(2.5% increase)

Clare Scherrer: 

£553,750 

(0% increase)

UK wider workforce increases of 3.0%.

Pension                Benefits

Paul Keel: 

12% 

of base salary

Clare Scherrer: 

12% 

of base salary

Benefits package consisting of 
healthcare, insurance, car benefit 
and relocation benefits.

Benefits package consisting 
of healthcare, insurance and 
car allowance.

Annual bonus (maximum opportunity)

Long term incentives (LTIP) 

Paul Keel: 

200% 

of base salary

Clare Scherrer:

165% 

of base salary

Paul Keel: 

189,900 

number of shares

Clare Scherrer:

91,342 

number of shares

Performance measure

Operating Profit

Revenue

Headline Operating Cash Conversion

New Product Commercialisation

Energy Efficiency

Weighting

Performance measure (3 year)

Weighting

Threshold  
(25% vesting)

Maximum 
(full vesting)

30%
30%
20%
10%
10%

EPS growth after tax

Revenue growth

Free cash-flow

Average ROCE

Reduction in GHG

20%
30%
20%
15%
15%

6%
3.5%
45%
14%
15%

11%
6.5%
55%
17%
20%

–  33% of annual bonus deferred into shares for three years. 
–  Specific targets are considered to be commercially sensitive 

and will be disclosed retrospectively.

–  Two-year post-vesting holding period applies. 
–  The same fixed number of shares as in 2021 will be granted to 

Paul Keel in October 2022 , per the Policy.

–  Clare Scherrer’s award will be in line with her contract of 

employment (value of 250% of salary).

PERFORMANCE MEASURES AND LINK TO STRATEGY 

Annual bonus (AIP)

OPERATING PROFIT

REVENUE GROWTH

OPERATING CASH CONVERSION

NEW PRODUCT COMMERCIALISATION

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Long Term Incentive Plan (LTIP)

EPS GROWTH AFTER TAX

REVENUE GROWTH

FREE CASH-FLOW

AVERAGE ROCE

REDUCTION IN GHG EMISSIONS

GROWTH

EXECUTION

PEOPLE

GROWTH

EXECUTION

1

2

3

4

5

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

5

1.  Strong execution to 

1. Operational

maximise underlying 
market expansion

2.  Improved product 

development 
and commercialisation

3.  Building out 

priority adjacencies

4. Disciplined M&A

5. Sustainable Smiths

2. Financial

3. Functional

4. Sustainable Smiths

PEOPLE

1. Safety and wellbeing

2.  Inspire and empower talent

3. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion

4. Communities

5. Sustainable Smiths

Shareholding requirements

–  Executive Directors should build a minimum shareholding equivalent to the annual fixed number of shares awarded under the LTIP 
within five years and are required to hold shares equivalent to their full in-employment shareholding guideline, or actual holding if 
lower, for two years post-employment.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202279

REMUNERATION 

Alignment with the UK Corporate Governance Code 
The table below details how the Committee addresses the factors set out within Provision 40 of the UK Corporate Governance Code:

Clarity

–  The Committee welcomes transparency and regular engagement with shareholders with regard to executive remuneration. 

Simplicity

During 2022, the Committee Chairman has consulted with shareholders to fully understand their views particularly in 
relation to share based remuneration

–  Participants in incentive plans receive annual communications to confirm award levels and performance measures. 
Supporting guidance documents and instructional videos are available online. The Remuneration Policy for Executive 
Directors underpins that of the wider workforce and the 2021 Policy review further simplified the arrangements

Risk

–  The Committee considers the effective management of risk throughout the delivery of incentive plans, applying reasonable 

discretion to override formulaic outcomes if necessary

–  The Committee considers that the structure of incentive arrangements does not encourage unnecessary risk taking
–  For Executive Directors, one third of the annual bonus payment is deferred into shares with an additional three years 

until vesting

–  Robust malus and clawback provisions are in place for incentive plans and are clearly communicated

Predictability

–  Our Policy clearly outlines the maximum award levels and vesting outcomes applicable to annual bonus and LTIP. As stated 
above under ‘risk’, the Committee has the ability to apply discretion to formulaic outcomes and clear malus and clawback 
provisions exist

Proportionality

–  There is a link between strategic business objectives and performance outcome, as outlined on page 78
–  Our Policy for our incentive plans outlines threshold, target and maximum opportunity levels, with actual outcomes 

dependent on performance achieved against pre-determined measures

–  Through the design of the Policy and the discretion of the Committee, poor performance is not rewarded

Alignment to culture

–  Smiths Group Values of passion, integrity, respect, ownership and customer focus underpin the design and operation of 
the incentive programmes. The business strategy is supported by these Values which are widely communicated across 
the Company

Consideration of wider workforce
The Committee considers all stakeholder groups when setting executive pay, including our people. The Committee is briefed on 
pay arrangements across the business and receives reports on remuneration issues raised by employees through the employee 
engagement survey and at divisional and functional town hall meetings. 

In September 2021 the Committee Chairman discussed executive pay and sustainable business performance at an employee Q&A 
event. A video was circulated in advance, explaining why we have a Remuneration & People Committee, how wider Company pay policies 
are aligned with executive pay structures, and how executive pay structures align to our Purpose, Values and culture drive sustainable 
business performance for the benefit of all our stakeholders. Employees were encouraged to submit questions in advance, and ask 
questions on the day.

The overall responsibility for workforce engagement rests with the Senior Independent Director while each Non-executive Director has 
responsibility for workforce engagement in a specific geographical region and business area.  Nine events attended by Non-executive 
Directors specifically relating to workforce engagement took place in FY2022, further details of which are outlined on page 60.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202280

REMUNERATION 

Single figure of annual remuneration (audited)

Executive Directors

Salary

Benefits 

Payments in 
lieu of pension 
contribution

Total fixed

Annual bonus 2

Long-term 
incentives

Total performance 
related

Total

FY2022 
£000

FY2021 
£000

FY2022 
£000

FY2021 
£000

FY2022 
£000

FY2021 
£000

FY2022 
£000

FY2021 
£000

FY2022 
£000

FY2021 
£000

FY2022 
£000

FY2021 
£000

FY2022 
£000

FY2021 
£000

FY2022 
£000

FY2021 
£000

875
141

163
–

183
7

54
–

96
17

10
–

1,154
165

227
–

678
91

223
–

–
–

–
–

678
91

223 1,832
256

–

450
–

551

540

26

11

113

131

690

682

344

567

2233

2814

567

848 1,257

1,530

Paul Keel 1
Clare Scherrer
John Shipsey
(former CFO)

1  An advance payment of $87,349 was made to Paul Keel in August 2022 for him to settle US taxes due on benefits which are also taxable in the UK.  Upon receipt of the refund relating to this 

foreign tax credit on his UK tax return, a full refund will be provided to the Company.   

2  Executive Directors defer 33% of the bonus into Smiths shares.  The total bonus paid during the year, including deferral, is captured under Annual Bonus above. The deferral is for a three-

year period and is not subject to any further performance or other conditions. 

3  The share price appreciation attributable to the FY2022 Long Term Incentive for John Shipsey was 8.0% (£7,663).  For FY2021 it was 11.3% (£20,526). No discretion has been applied to the 

amounts attributable to share price appreciation.

4  The Long Term Incentive value for FY2021 for John Shipsey has been restated to show the actual amount (rather than the estimated amount in last year’s report) and to include dividend 

accrual payments of £22,461 which was paid on vesting. The total remuneration is also restated accordingly. The estimated Long Term Incentive values for FY2022 are calculated using the 
vesting percentage of 14.1% and the average share price over the three months to 29 July 2022 of 1,479p; it also includes the dividend accrual payment of £16,791 for John Shipsey, payable 
on vesting. The average share price for the five days to 29 July 2022 of 1,512p is used to calculate the dividend equivalent value.

Salary
Clare Scherrer was appointed to the Board as Chief Financial Officer on 29 April 2022 with an annual base salary of £553,750. The values 
in the single figure table above reflect the remuneration paid from 29 April 2022.

John Shipsey stepped down from the Board as Chief Financial Officer on 29 April 2022 and remained employed by the Group until 31 July 
2022 to ensure a smooth transition. The values in the single figure table above reflect the remuneration paid to 31 July 2022.

Benefits
Benefits for Executive Directors include life assurance, disability insurance, private healthcare insurance, car related benefits and 
relocation benefits (CEO only).

Pension
Executives may choose either to participate in the Company’s defined contribution pension plan or to receive a pension allowance in lieu 
thereof. Paul Keel and Clare Scherrer received an allowance in lieu of pension contribution equivalent to 12% of salary during the year. 
This is aligned to the rate available to the wider UK workforce.

John Shipsey received an allowance in lieu of pension contribution of 20.5% of salary during the year.

FY2022 annual bonus outcome
The maximum annual bonus opportunities for FY2022 were 200% of salary for Paul Keel, 165% of salary for Clare Scherrer (pro-rated 
for time since appointment) and 165% of salary for the former CFO, John Shipsey. 

For FY2022, financial metrics made up 90% of the annual bonus, with the final 10% based on performance against personal objectives. 
The table below summarises the financial targets and the Company’s actual performance (restated at budget exchange rates) against 
these for the FY2022 annual bonus.

Performance targets, actual performance and outturn

Measure

Operating Profit
Revenue Growth
Headline Operating Cash Conversion
H1
FY

Total Financial

Personal Objectives

Total

Weighting

Threshold  
25% payout

Target  
50% payout

Maximum 
100% payout

£459m

40%
£502m
30% £2,784m £2,841m £2,926m

£478m

90%
95%

100%
105%

110%
115%

10%
10%

90%

10%

100%

Actual

£464
£2,832

93%
81%

90%

Outturn

12.8%
13.8%

3.2%
0.0%

29.8%

9.0%

38.8%

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY2022REMUNERATION 

81

Personal objectives 
Challenging personal objectives are set each year for the Executive Directors, to reinforce the Company’s operating and strategic 
priorities. The personal objectives for the Executive Directors for FY2022 comprised a number of strategic long-term enablers, some 
of which remain commercially sensitive, together with short-term projects aligned to innovation, operational excellence and capability 
planning. Achievements against personal objectives in the year (which have a 10% weighting) are in the table below.  During the process 
of stepping down, the performance of John Shipsey was considered and assessed by the Committee and an overall rating of 80% was 
agreed (outturn of 8% of maximum bonus).

Paul Keel

Growth 
(including 
financials)

Category

Achievement

Outturn

Group Strategy

Developed and communicated a compelling enterprise strategy 
for the Group including extensive investor engagement, a 
highlight of which was the November 2021 Capital Markets Event.

Environmental, 
Social & Governance

Established a Board-level sustainability focused Committee - 
the Science, Sustainability & Excellence (SSE) Committee and 
appointed Chief Sustainability Officer. Oversaw the development and 
implementation of a compelling Group-wide sustainability strategy 
which was incorporated into incentive compensation programmes. 
Set and communicated environmental goals, to support the 
delivery of our commitment to Net Zero GHG Emissions from 
operations by 2040.  Mapped our approach, signing on to the 
Science Based Targets Initiative and the UN Race to Zero pledge.

Portfolio

Closed the Smiths Medical transaction with an enterprise value 
of $2.7bn and an equity value of $2.4bn after adjustments for 
debt, liabilities and working capital.

44.2/50.0

Execution

Smiths Excellence 
System (SES)

Operations

Developed and deployed a Group-wide SES programme, building 
on the foundations of the SES Academy and embedding lean 
methodology.  Appointment of Master Black Belts and Black 
Belts in all divisions to ensure delivery of results. 

Navigated global supply chain headwinds, including impacts 
from Ukraine invasion. Delivered productivity and pricing gains to 
offset raw material inflation. Managed working capital levels to 
support growth.

Customer

Improved On Time in Full (OTIF) and reduced  
Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ).

23.0/25.0

People

Team

Key Executive Committee appointments including CFO, CPO, 
CSO, John Crane President and Group SES Director.

Inclusion 
and Diversity

Established an extended leadership team comprised of the top 
200 leaders, with improved diversity.  In addition, the number of 
senior leadership positions taken by females is 24%. 

Talent Development

Developed and launched an assessment, development and 
reward programme that ensures all critical leadership roles 
have ‘ready now’ successor and talent pipeline is constantly 
reviewed and in development.

Total (9% of maximum bonus opportunity)

Clare Scherrer (from 29 April 2022)

Achievement

Growth

Execution

People

Clare has made an excellent start in her first quarter with Smiths including: -
– Concluding the final buy-in for the £1bn legacy TI Group Pension Scheme 
– Developing and deploying strong internal controls
– Structuring an effective Finance Leadership team with key appointments
– Delivering good H2 financial results and fifth consecutive quarter of growth

22.8/25.0

90.0/100.0

Outturn

Overall rating of 
90% was approved 
by the Committee 
representing 9% of 
maximum bonus  
(pro-rated for service)

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY2022REMUNERATION 

82

Overall FY2022 annual bonus outturn
The following table sets out the overall FY2022 bonus outturn for Executive Directors:

Paul Keel

Clare Scherrer1

John Shipsey (former CFO)

Maximum opportunity

Outturn (percentage of maximum)

200%

165%

165%

38.8%

38.8%

37.8%

1  Clare Scherrer joined the Board as Chief Financial Officer on 29 April. The maximum bonus opportunity of 165% of salary has been pro-rated to reflect the time since appointment.

The Committee considered the amounts carefully in the context of the Group’s performance, individual performance and the current 
macroeconomic environment, and determined that the amounts were a fair reflection of performance in the past financial year. 

FY2020 long-term incentive plan outcome
John Shipsey received an award under the LTIP in October 2019, subject to the following performance conditions:

Measure

Organic sales growth

Group EPS growth after tax

Average ROCE

Average headline operating cash conversion

Total vesting

Weighting 

Performance period

30%

25%

20%

25%

1 August 2019 to  
31 July 2022

1 August 2019 to  
31 July 2022

1 August 2019 to  
31 July 2022

1 August 2019 to  
31 July 2022

Threshold 
(25%)

Maximum 
(100%)

3%

6%

Actual

0.6%

Outturn  
(% of vesting)

0.0%

4% p.a.

11% p.a.

1.8%

0.0%

15% p.a.

18% p.a.

13.7%

0.0%

90%

105%

96%

14.1%

14.1%

No discretion was exercised by the Remuneration & People Committee in respect of the formulaic outcomes under the LTIP. No awards 
were due to vest to Paul Keel or Clare Scherrer under this award.

Scheme interests awarded in respect of FY2022 (audited)
Scheme interests awarded are outlined below. 

Paul Keel

Paul Keel

Scheme

Form of award

Date of grant

LTIP

Conditional shares

5 November 2021

Deferred bonus

Conditional shares

5 November 2021

John Shipsey

LTIP

Conditional shares

5 November 2021

John Shipsey

Deferred bonus

Conditional shares

5 November 2021

No awards were granted to Clare Scherrer in FY2022.

The performance measures for the FY2022 LTIP award are as follows:

Measure

Three-year EPS growth after tax

Three-year organic revenue growth

Three-year average free cash-flow (as a percentage of operating profit)

Three-year average return on capital employed

Three-year reduction in greenhouse gas emissions (normalised)

Total

Number  
of shares 
awarded

189,900

5,378

100,150

13,680

Award  
price

Face value  
(£000)

% vesting at 
threshold 
performance

Performance  
period end date

1,435p

1,435p

1,435p

1,435p

2,725

77

1,437

196

25% 31 July 2024

N/A

N/A

25% 31 July 2024

N/A

N/A

Weighting

20%

30%

20%

15%

15%

100%

Threshold  
(25% vesting)

4% p.a.

2% p.a.

45%

13%

5%

Maximum

11% p.a.

6% p.a.

55%

17%

10%

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY2022REMUNERATION 

83

Payments to past Directors (audited)
Andy Reynolds Smith was paid an amount of £876,451 in lieu of notice for the unserved part of his twelve month notice period which 
ended on 24 May 2022.  In addition, the FY2020 LTIP will vest in 2022, pro-rated for service to 31 July 2021.  179,627 shares, pro-rated for 
service will vest at 14.1%.  This is equivalent to 16,885 shares a with an estimated value of £249,729. 

Payments for loss of office (audited)
John Shipsey stepped down from the Board on 29 April 2022 but remained an employee of the Company on his existing terms of 
employment until 31 July 2022.

Mr Shipsey will be paid in lieu of notice for the unserved part of his 12 month notice period. The payment in lieu of notice will be made in 
monthly instalments to enable a reduction in the payments in the event that Mr Shipsey finds alternative employment prior to 29 April 
2023. Further details in relation to the payment in lieu of notice will be provided in the FY2023 Annual Report.

Mr Shipsey remained entitled to receive an annual bonus for FY2022, the full value of which has been included in the single figure table. 
One third of the annual bonus will be deferred into shares for three years. 

Mr Shipsey’s share awards under the Company’s Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP), will be preserved in accordance with the good leaver 
provisions of the LTIP, subject to a time pro-rating adjustment and normal vesting dates. Information relating to the vesting of shares 
under the LTIP will be updated in the relevant Directors’ Remuneration Reports. 

The Company made a contribution towards Mr Shipsey’s legal fees of up to £12,000. 

Directors’ share options and long-term share plans (audited)

Options 
and awards 
held on 31 
July 2022 
Number

Options 
and awards 
held on 31 
July 2021 
Number

141,059
189,900

141,059
0

5,378

1,547

0

0

Director and Plan

Paul Keel

LTIP 

Deferred bonus award

SAYE

John Shipsey (Former CFO)

LTIP

Deferred bonus award

SAYE

0
95,837
95,837
100,150

0
6,933
3,406
13,680

1,969

95,837
95,837
95,837
0

6,393
6,933
0
0

1,969

Performance 
test

Exercise 
price

Grant 
date

Vesting 
date+

Expiry 
date++ Date vested

Number

Exercise 
price

Market 
price at  
date of 
grant

Market  
price at  
date of 
vesting

Option and award data

Awards vested 
FY2021

B
C

–

–

A
A
B
C

–
–
–

–

n/a 28/09/21 Nov 2023
05/11/21 Nov 2024

n/a 05/11/21 05/11/24

1163p 17/05/22 01/08/25 01/02/26

n/a 31/10/18 Oct 2021
n/a 03/10/19 Oct 2022
n/a 04/11/20 Nov 2023
05/11/21 Nov 2024

n/a 31/10/18 31/10/21
n/a 03/10/19 03/10/22
n/a 04/11/20 04/11/23
05/11/21 05/11/24

914p 20/05/20 01/08/23 01/02/24

13/10/21

18,209

n/a

1,369p 1,421p

31/10/21

6,393

n/a

1,369p 1,421p

Key
LTIP The Smiths Group Long-Term Incentive Plan 2015.
SAYE The Smiths Group Sharesave Scheme.
+  The vesting dates shown above in respect of awards made under the LTIP are subject to the relevant performance test(s) being passed.
++  The expiry dates shown above apply in normal circumstances.

Performance tests
A  LTIP awards in 2018 and 2019 – 25% subject to EPS growth; 20% subject to ROCE; 25% subject to cash conversion; 30% subject to organic revenue growth.
B  LTIP awards in 2020 – 25% subject to EPS growth; 25% subject to ROCE; 25% subject to free cash-flow; 25% subject to organic revenue growth.
C  LTIP awards in 2021 – 20% subject to EPS growth; 15% subject to ROCE; 20% subject to free cash-flow; 30% subject to organic revenue growth; 15% subject to reduction in greenhouse 

gas emissions.

–  There are no performance criteria for the Deferred Bonus Shares awards or SAYE.

Notes
–  The high and low market prices of the ordinary shares during the period 1 August 2021 to 29 July 2022 were 1,629p and 1,356p respectively. The mid-market closing price on 31 July 2021 

was 1,555.5p and on 29 July 2022 was 1,543p.

–  The mid-market closing price of a Smiths Group share on the date of the awards made to Directors in the FY2022 financial year was 1,435p (5 November 2021).
–  The option over 1,547 shares granted to and held by Paul Keel at 31 July 2022 were granted at an exercise price below the market price of a Smiths Group share on 17 May 2022 (1,454p). 

Shares are granted in May but the savings period commences in August.

–  The options over 1,969 shares granted to and held by John Shipsey at 31 July 2022 were granted at an exercise price below the market price of a Smiths Group share on 20 May 2020 (1,268p). 

Shares are granted in May but the savings period commences in August.

–  None of the options or awards listed above was subject to any payment on grant.
–  No other Directors held any options over the Company’s shares during the period 1 August 2021 to 31 July 2022.
–  No options or awards have been granted to or exercised by Directors or have lapsed during the period 1 August to 16 September 2022.
–  At 31 July 2022, the trustee of the Employee Share Trust held 618,662 shares. The market value of the shares held by the trustee on 31 July 2022 was £9,545,955 and all dividends were 

waived in the year in respect of the shares held by the trustee.

–  Special provisions permit early exercise of options and vesting of awards in the event of retirement, redundancy, and death.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY2022REMUNERATION 

84

Share ownership requirement for Executive Directors
Executive Directors are required to build a minimum shareholding equivalent to the annual fixed number of shares awarded under the 
LTIP within five years. Executive Directors are required to retain at least 50% of any net vested share awards (after sales to meet tax 
liabilities) until those guidelines are achieved. Shares under deferred bonus awards and LTIP awards which have vested but are subject 
to a further holding period (net of assumed income tax) count towards the requirement. Awards that are still subject to performance 
conditions do not count towards the requirement. 

Executive Directors will be required to hold shares equivalent to their full in-employment shareholding guideline, or actual holding 
if lower, for two years post-employment, in line with best practice guidance. To enforce this requirement, vested shares are held in a 
nominee account provided by Smiths share plan administrator. This policy applies to Andy Reynolds Smith, who stepped down from 
the Group during FY2021, and John Shipsey who stepped down from the Group during FY2022. Mr Reynolds Smith is required to hold a 
number of shares in the Company with a value at least equal to £2,109,450 at 31 July 2021 until at least 31 July 2023, while Mr Shipsey is 
required to hold 54,959 shares in the Company until at least 31 July 2024.

Share scheme dilution limits
The Company complies with the guidelines laid down by the Investment Association. These restrict the issue of new shares under all the 
Company’s share schemes in any ten-year period to 10% of the issued ordinary share capital and under the Company’s discretionary 
schemes to 5% in any ten-year period. As at 31 July 2022 the headroom available under these limits was 8.28% and 3.79% respectively.

Executive Directors’ shareholdings (audited) 
The table below shows the shareholding for each Executive Director against their respective shareholding requirement as at 
31 July 2022.

Director and Plan

Paul Keel
Clare Scherrer

Shareholding  
requirement

Shares owned 
outright

Shares 
subject to 
performance

Vested  
shares in  
holding period

Shares 
 arising from  
bonus deferral

189,900 shares
91,342 shares

25,000
25,000

330,959
0

0
0

5,378
0

Save As  
You Earn  
(SAYE)

1,547
0

Current 
shareholding 
(% of 
requirement)1

14.6%
27.4%

Shareholding 
requirement  
met

No
No

1  Shares owned outright (including vested shares in holding period), and the net of income tax value of shares arising from bonus deferral are taken into account for the shareholding 

requirement. Executive Directors have five years from the date of appointment to meet the required personal shareholding; Paul Keel has until 25 May 2026 and Clare Scherrer has until 
29 April 2027 to meet the requirement.

There have been no changes to the Directors’ shareholdings between 1 August 2022 and 16 September 2022.

TSR performance
The following graph shows the Company’s total shareholder return (TSR) performance over the past ten years compared to the FTSE 
100 Index. The FTSE 100 Index, of which the Company has been a member throughout the period, has been selected to reflect the TSR 
performance of other leading UK-listed companies. The values of hypothetical £100 investments in the FTSE 100 Index and Smiths Group 
plc shares at 31 July 2022 were £187.25 and £191.44 respectively.

Total Shareholder Return

Value of £100 invested on 31 July 2012

£220

£200

£180

£160

£140

£120

£100

£100

2012

£195.66

£195.53

£170.34

£175.63

£182.50

£158.07

£178.50

£149.00

£202.90

£176.01

£191.44

£187.25

£134.58

£120.21

£129.86

£129.14

£131.40

£121.19

£136.72

£133.74

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

Smiths Group

FTSE100

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202285

REMUNERATION 

Chief Executive’s remuneration for the last ten years

Total remuneration 
£000
Annual bonus 
outcome (% max)
Common Investment  
Plan outcome  
(% max)
LTIP outcome  
(% max)

FY2022  
P Keel

FY2021  
P Keel

FY2021  
A Reynolds 
Smith

FY2020  
A Reynolds 
Smith

FY2019  
A Reynolds 
Smith

FY2018  
A Reynolds 
Smith

FY2017  
A Reynolds 
Smith

FY2016  
A Reynolds 
Smith

FY2016  
P Bowman

FY2015  
P Bowman

FY2014  
P Bowman

FY2013  
P Bowman

1,832

450

2,753

2,196

4,130

3,251

2,320

2,964

1,602

4,195

3,912

3,864

39%

76%

70%

17%

41%

42%

96%

89%

88%

80%

43%

39%

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

19%

31%

75%

32%

n/a

n/a

n/a

100%

100%

100%

100%

n/a

18%

17%

18%

n/a

Chief Executive pay ratios
These ratios set out the comparison between the Chief Executive’s remuneration and that for employees in the UK workforce.

Method

Option B
Option B
Option B
Option B

Method

Option B
Option B
Option B
Option B

Total remuneration
Year

FY2022
FY2021
FY2020
FY2019

Salary
Year

FY2022
FY2021
FY2020
FY2019

Chief Executive
25th percentile employee
Median employee
75th percentile employee

25th percentile ratio

Median pay ratio

75th percentile ratio

58:1
105:1
75:1
133:1

39:1
75:1
53:1
97:1

26:1
47:1
34:1
65:1

25th percentile ratio

Median pay ratio

75th percentile ratio

28:1
35:1
31:1
36:1

20:1
25:1
22:1
26:1

13:1
17:1
15:1
18:1

Salary (£)

Total Remuneration (£)

875,000
31,200
44,000
64,866

1,832,130
31,375
47,507
69,420

The pay data for employees in the UK workforce has been calculated using Option B, based on the data used for gender pay reporting, 
due to the availability of data at the time the Annual Report was published. The gender pay reporting basis comprises salary and benefits 
as at 15 April 2022 and incentive payments payable in respect of FY2022. The Committee considers that this provides an outcome that is 
representative of the employees at these pay levels. It is assumed that the value of employee benefits is 7.0% of base salary. 

The workforce remuneration figures are those paid to UK employees whose pay is at the 25th, median and 75th percentile of pay for 
the Group’s UK employees. Figures are shown on both the prescribed basis using total pay and also salary only which provides a useful 
ongoing comparison as it is a less volatile basis. The total remuneration ratios have reduced primarily due to the CEO not currently being 
in receipt of LTIP payments. The Committee monitors ratios on an annual basis.

Percentage change in Directors’ remuneration 

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Financial Officer 
Outgoing Chief Financial Officer
Non-executive Director remuneration
Average of all employees

FY2021 to FY2022

FY2020 to FY2021

Salary/Fees

Benefits

0%

n/a
2.5%
2.5%
2.5%

239%

n/a
100%
100%
2.5%

Bonus

204%

n/a
-39%
n/a%
-34%

Salary/Fees

n/a

n/a
0%
-4.0%
0%

Benefits

n/a

n/a
-1.0%
-100%
0%

Bonus

n/a

n/a
308%
n/a
267%

‘All employees’ is defined as all UK Group employees, 200 and 196 employees at all grades in FY2022 and FY2021 respectively.

Remuneration for the Chief Executive Officer was pro-rated for service from 25 May 2021 - 31 July 2021 for FY2021. 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY2022REMUNERATION 

86

Relative importance of spend on pay
The table below shows shareholder distributions (i.e. dividends and share buybacks) and total employee pay expenditure for FY2021 and 
FY2022, and the percentage change.

Shareholder distributions
Employee costs
- Continuing operations

- Total Group (including Smiths Medical)

FY2022  
£m

661

823

930

FY2021  
£m

185

–

1,019

Change

257%

N/A

-8.73%

Executive Directors’ service contracts
The Company’s policy is that Executive Directors are normally employed on terms which include a one-year rolling period of notice from 
the Company and six months’ notice from the individual. The contract includes provision for the payment of a predetermined sum in the 
event of termination of employment in certain circumstances (but excluding circumstances where the Company is entitled to dismiss 
without compensation). In addition to payment of basic salary, pension allowance and benefits in respect of the unexpired portion of the 
one-year notice period, the predetermined sum would include annual bonus and share awards only in respect of the period they have 
served, payable following the end of the relevant performance period and subject to the normal performance conditions. 

Paul Keel is employed under a service contract with the Company dated and effective from 25 May 2021.  He became an Executive Director 
with effect from 25 May 2021. 

Clare Scherrer is employed under a service contract with the Company dated 13 April 2022 and effective 29 April 2022. She became an 
Executive Director with effect from 29 April 2022.

The service contracts for both Executive Directors may be terminated by 12 months’ notice given by the Company or six months’ notice 
given by the Director. The Company may elect to terminate the contract by making a payment in lieu of notice equal to the Director’s 
base salary and benefits (including pension allowance) in respect of any unserved period of notice. The service contracts contain specific 
provisions enabling a reduction in any phased payments in lieu of notice, in the event that the Director finds alternative employment during 
the notice period. The service contracts are available for viewing at the Company’s Registered Office.

Leaving and change-of-control provisions
When determining leaving arrangements for an Executive Director the Committee takes into account any contractual agreements 
including the provisions of any incentive arrangements, typical market practice and the performance and conduct of the individual. 
For those individuals regarded as ‘bad leavers’ (e.g. voluntary resignation or dismissal for cause), annual bonus awards are forfeited, and 
outstanding awards under the LTIP automatically lapse. Deferred bonus awards are forfeited on dismissal for cause.

A ‘good leaver’ will typically remain eligible for a pro-rated annual bonus award, normally to be paid after the end of the financial year. 
The Committee retains discretion to pay the bonus early and not to apply deferral where it would otherwise apply, but would do so only 
in compassionate circumstances. Deferred bonus awards shall continue in full and vest on the originally anticipated vesting dates. 
Alternatively, in compassionate circumstances, the Committee may determine that awards should vest when the participant ceases 
employment. Awards in the form of options may be exercised in accordance with the rules of the applicable scheme. 

LTIP awards will typically vest at the normal vesting date to the extent that the associated performance conditions are met, but will 
normally be pro-rated on the basis of actual service within the performance period. Any holding period will ordinarily continue to apply. 
The Committee retains discretion to vest the award before the end of the originally anticipated performance period, and to assess 
performance accordingly, and to waive the continuation of the holding period or to shorten its application, but would do so only in 
compassionate circumstances. 

Vested LTIP awards which are subject to a holding period will ordinarily continue to be subject to the holding period, although the 
Committee retains discretion to waive the continuation of the holding period or to shorten its application but would do so only in 
compassionate circumstances.

In cases of death or disability, individuals are automatically deemed to be good leavers under the plan rules of the LTIP. All other good 
leavers will be defined at the discretion of the Committee on a case-by-case basis.

In connection with the termination of an Executive Director’s contract, the Company may make a payment on account of accrued but untaken 
leave. The Company has the power to enter into settlement agreements with Directors and to pay compensation to settle potential legal claims. 
In addition, and consistent with market practice, in the event of the termination of an Executive Director, the Company may make a contribution 
towards that individual’s legal fees and fees for outplacement services as part of a negotiated settlement. Any such fees will be disclosed as part 
of the detail of termination arrangements. 

In the event of a change of control, LTIP awards will vest to the extent that each of the performance conditions is met based on the Committee’s 
assessment of performance over the performance period to the date of change of control. For internal performance measures, the Committee 
may exercise its judgement in determining the outcome based on its assessment of whether or not the performance conditions would have been 
met to a greater or lesser extent at the end of the full performance period. Awards will also normally be pro-rated to reflect the time that has 
elapsed between the grant of the award and the date of change of control. The Committee retains discretion to vary these provisions on a case-
by-case basis.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY2022REMUNERATION 

Non-executive Directors

Single figure of annual remuneration (audited)

Sir George Buckley2
Bruno Angelici
Olivier Bohuon
Pam Cheng
Dame Ann Dowling3
Tanya Fratto
Karin Hoeing
Bill Seeger4
Mark Seligman5
Noel Tata

87

Salary/fees

Benefits1

Total

FY2022 
£000

FY2021 
£000

FY2022 
£000

FY2021 
£000

FY2022 
£000

FY2021 
£000

461
–
–
77
87
81
73
146
100
89

461
24
24
71
71
71
71
119
99
71

47
-
-
-
3
-
-
-
-
-

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

508
-
-
77
90
81
73
146
100
89

461
24
24
71
71
71
71
119
99
71

1  Benefits for the Chairman and Non-executive Directors relate to reimbursed travel-related and other expenses (including flight costs where applicable), which are grossed-up for the UK 

income tax and National Insurance contributions paid by the Company on their behalf.

2  Sir George Buckley’s fee is in respect of all his responsibilities for Smiths Group. 

3  Dame Ann Dowling’s fee comprised her Non-executive Director’s fee and her additional fee for chairing the Science, Sustainability & Excellence Committee.

4  Bill Seeger’s fees comprised his Non-executive Director’s fee, his additional fee for chairing Remuneration & People Committee, his additional fee as Senior Independent Director and a 

supplementary fee provided to the Chairs of each of the Committees related to the sale of Smiths Medical (payable until 31 January 2022). 

5  Mark Seligman’s fees comprised his Non-executive Director’s fee, his additional fee for chairing the Audit & Risk Committee and a supplementary fee provided to the Chairs of each of the 

Committees related to the sale of Smiths Medical (payable until 31 January 2022). 

Non-executive Director fees
Non-executive Director fees paid during FY2022 and payable during FY2023 are shown below. The Remuneration & People Committee 
made the decision to focus more of the FY2023 salary increase budget on those sectors of the workforce who are more impacted by 
current inflationary pressures.  It was determined that the NED fee increase should mirror that awarded to senior employees and lower 
than that of the wider UK workforce.  The fee increases of 2.5% will be effective from 1 October 2022. 

Fee payable to Chairman of the Board for all responsibilities
Non-executive Director base fee
Additional fee payable to the Senior Independent Director
Additional fee for Committee Chairs

Supplementary fee1

Attendance allowance for each meeting outside the Non-executive Director’s home continent

FY2022

£461,250
£73,030
£20,000
£20,000

£15,000

£4,000

FY2023

£466,920
£74,855
£20,000
£20,000

£N/A

£4,000

1  Supplementary fee provided to the Chairs of the Audit & Risk and Remuneration & People Committees in respect of additional workload related to the separation of Smiths Medical from 

the period 1 February 2021 to 31 January 2022. 

Share ownership guidance for Non-executive Directors 
Non-executive Directors are encouraged to acquire shares in the Company with a value of one times the annual base fee, over a five year 
period.  The five year period is from the later of 1 August 2021 or the date of appointment to the Board. In addition, the Non-executive 
Directors are encouraged to retain a shareholding of one times the annual base fee for at least two years after the Director leaves 
the Board.

Non-executive Directors’ shareholdings (audited) 
The table below shows the shareholding for each Non-executive Director.

Sir George Buckley
Pam Cheng
Dame Ann Dowling
Tanya Fratto
Karin Hoeing
Richard Howes1
Bill Seeger
Mark Seligman
Noel Tata

31 July 2022

26,591
6,000
5,813
1,500
503
-
10,000
6,000
6,000

1  Richard Howes was appointed as an independent Non-executive Director with effect from 1 September 2022.  He was not a member of the Board during FY2022. 

Following their quarterly acquisition of Ordinary Shares, under a share purchase agreement using a fixed proportion of the after-tax fees 
received from the Company (20%), Sir George Buckley acquired 812 shares on 1 August 2022 and Karin Hoeing acquired 211 shares on 
1 August 2022. There have been no further changes to the Directors’ shareholdings between 1 August 2022 and 16 September 2022.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY2022REMUNERATION 

88

Chairman’s and Non-executive Directors’ letters of appointment
The Chairman and the Non-executive Directors serve the Company under letters of appointment and do not have contracts of service 
or contracts for services. Except where appointed at a General Meeting, Directors stand for election by shareholders at the first AGM 
following appointment. The Board has resolved that all Directors who are willing to continue in office will stand for re-election by the 
shareholders each year at the AGM. Either party can terminate the appointment on one month’s written notice and no compensation is 
payable in the event of an appointment being terminated early. The letters of appointment or other applicable agreements are available 
for viewing at the Company’s Registered Office.

Non-executive Director

Sir George Buckley
Pam Cheng
Dame Ann Dowling
Tanya Fratto
Karin Hoeing
Richard Howes
Bill Seeger
Mark Seligman
Noel Tata

Date of appointment

1 August 2013
1 March 2020
19 September 2018
1 July 2012
2 April 2020
1 September 2022
12 May 2014
16 May 2016
1 January 2017

Statement of shareholder voting
The table below sets out the Company voting outcome of the advisory resolution for approval of the Directors’ Remuneration Report and 
the approval of the Directors’ Remuneration Policy at the 2021 AGM:

Resolution

Directors’ Remuneration Report
Directors’ Remuneration Policy

Votes for

315,633,416
282,034,458

% of votes  
cast for

95.86%
86.69%

Votes  
against

% of votes  
cast against

Total  
votes cast

Votes withheld 
(abstentions)

13,615,338
43,312,009

4.14%
13.31%

329,248,754
325,346,467

469,665
4,371,952

Advisers to the Committee
During the year, the Committee received material assistance and advice from the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief People Officer, the 
Global Reward Director, Deloitte LLP and Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP. The Committee’s appointed independent remuneration 
adviser is Deloitte LLP. The Company Secretary is secretary to the Committee. 

The Company paid a total fee of £167,800 to Deloitte LLP in relation to remuneration advice to the Committee during the year. Fees were 
determined on the basis of time and expenses.

During FY2022, Deloitte LLP provided the Committee with information on market, compliance support for this year’s Directors’ 
Remuneration Report, advice on remuneration of the incoming Chief Financial Officer, the shareholder consultation process and 
the provision of other advice relating to remuneration governance and market practice. Deloitte LLP is a founding member of the 
Remuneration Consultants Group and a signatory to its Code of Conduct. Deloitte LLP provided additional tax advisory services including 
global corporation tax compliance and employee mobility advice, as well as company secretarial, internal audit co-source, transaction 
and consultancy services. The Committee is satisfied that the advice provided by Deloitte LLP is objective and independent and that they 
do not have connections with the Group that may impair their independence. 

Summary of Remuneration Policy 
Full details of the Remuneration Policy for Executive Directors, which was approved by shareholders at the AGM on 17 November 2021, 
are set out on the Company’s website and in the 2021 Annual Report and Accounts on pages 112 to 119.

The Directors’ Remuneration Report has been approved by the Board and signed on its behalf by:

Bill Seeger
CHAIRMAN OF THE REMUNERATION & PEOPLE COMMITTEE

22 September 2022

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SCIENCE, 
SUSTAINABILITY 
& EXCELLENCE 
COMMITTEE 
REPORT

Chair’s Statement
I am pleased to present our first Science, Sustainability 
& Excellence (SSE) Committee Report. SSE are critical 
elements in the execution of our strategy. 

Reflecting the importance and commitment to this topic, this year 
the Board approved the creation of the SSE Committee to provide 
the Board with enhanced oversight of SSE matters including 
the Group’s innovation and new product development process, 
environmental and sustainability performance, and the embedding 
and delivery of operational excellence through the Smiths Excellence 
System. When establishing the Committee, the Board ensured that 
members brought a range of experience on the SSE related topics 
that fall within the Committee’s remit. I have had a keen interest in 
engineering excellence, innovation and sustainability throughout 
my career including leadership roles as Head of the Engineering 
Department at the University of Cambridge and as President of the 
Royal Academy of Engineering. This interest continues through my 
current positions as Deputy Vice Chancellor and Emeritus Professor 
of Mechanical Engineering at Cambridge. I was a member of bp plc’s 
Safety and Sustainability Committee until May 2021.

I am delighted to be joined on the Committee by Sir George 
Buckley, Pam Cheng and Karin Hoeing. Sir George has extensive 
experience of leading large innovative multinational groups which 
has been instrumental in our consideration of matters relating to 
new product development. Pam brings challenge to operational 
excellence from her role as Executive Vice-President, Operations 
and Information Technology at AstraZeneca plc. Finally, Karin’s 
current executive experience as Group ESG, Culture and Business 
Transformation Director at BAE Systems plc has been invaluable as 
we have developed our sustainability strategy and priorities. We are 
also all members of the Remuneration & People Committee and 
were delighted to be able to recommend the introduction of key and 
stretching sustainability measures into our incentive arrangements in 
support of Smiths strategy.

Over the next year, I look forward to the Committee’s continued 
oversight of Smiths SSE agenda, including further presentations from 
our divisions and Group experts. I am excited by the opportunities 
presented by the innovation and new products we have in the pipeline 
to support our growth strategy. I would like to thank my colleagues 
on the Committee for their contributions during the year and I look 
forward to continuing our work in FY2023.

Dame Ann Dowling
CHAIR OF THE SCIENCE, SUSTAINABILITY & 
EXCELLENCE COMMITTEE

Committee membership and meetings
There were three scheduled meetings during the year. The members 
of the Committee, their biographies and attendance at meetings 
during the year can be found on page 58, 59 and 63. 

The Chief Executive Officer, Chief Sustainability Officer and 
Group Operational Excellence Director attended every meeting. 
Other members of senior management were invited to attend 
as necessary.

Committee performance evaluation
Through the annual Board evaluation process (pages 64 and 65), 
the Board confirmed the effectiveness of the Committee in its role 
of supporting the Board in compliance with its remit.

Committee activities
The main topics considered at Committee meetings were as follows:

Science
John Crane, Smiths Detection and Flex-Tek updated the 
Committee on their new product development (NPD) processes 
and pipelines and how technology, innovation and sustainability 
were influencing their next generation of products. In July the 
Committee visited Flex-Tek’s operations in Portland, Tennessee, 
and experienced the new Python line sets at first-hand. 
Understanding each of the divisions’ NPD processes from ideation 
to commercialisation of new products in support of the Group’s 
Gross Vitality KPI has been important. The Committee are highly 
engaged in this area and are excited by the product opportunities 
in the NPD pipeline and by ways in which the development 
processes can be expedited.

Sustainability
Smiths new Chief Sustainability Officer joined the business in 
January 2022 and led the development of the new sustainability 
strategy which was approved by the Board during the year. 
See page 27 for a summary of the strategy. The Committee 
received regular updates on the development and implementation 
of the strategy and how the divisions were driving sustainability 
in their businesses and embedding it in their new product 
pipeline. The Committee continued to monitor progress 
against Smiths sustainability metrics including GHG emissions, 
renewable electricity, energy efficiency, water use and waste 
disposal. The Committee monitored progress towards setting 
Science Based Targets to achieve Net Zero through the SBTi. 
The Committee approved the new Sustainability at Smiths Report 
which will provide stakeholders with an enhanced understanding 
of Smiths approach to ESG. The report can be found on our 
website www.smiths.com.

Excellence
The Group Operational Excellence Director attended each 
Committee meeting to report on the Smiths Excellence System 
(SES). The Committee were updated on the rollout and embedding 
of phase two of SES and how the business is targeting excellence 
through results-orientated process improvements and the 
continuing development of our talented people. SES supports 
our ability to innovate and deliver new technology for customers. 
It also supports the execution of our sustainability and Net Zero 
strategies. The Committee was provided with deep-dives on SES 
from Flex-Tek which demonstrated how SES was being embedded 
in the business.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202290

DIRECTORS’ 
REPORT

The Strategic Report is a requirement of the Companies Act 2006 
(the ‘Act’) and can be found on pages 5 to 55. The Company has 
chosen, in accordance with section 414C(11) of the Act, to include 
certain matters in its Strategic Report that would otherwise be 
disclosed in this Directors’ Report. The Strategic Report and 
the Directors’ Report together are the management report for 
the purposes of Rule 4.1.8R of the Disclosure Guidance and 
Transparency Rules.

Other information that is relevant to the Directors’ Report, and which is also incorporated by reference, can be found as follows:
Disclosure

Location

Likely future developments in the Company

Directors’ dividend recommendation

Research and development activities

Employment of disabled persons

Engagement with UK employees 

Strategic Report pages 5 to 23

Strategic Report page 15

Strategic Report pages 17 to 20

Sustainability at Smiths page 33

Sustainability at Smiths page 32

Engagement with suppliers, customers and others in a business relationship    
with the company

Sustainability at Smiths pages 41 to 44

Political donations and expenditure

Political donations page 91 

Greenhouse gas emissions, energy consumption and energy efficiency

Sustainability at Smiths page 30

Corporate Governance Statement

Directors during FY2022

Director appointment

Amendment of Articles of Association

Indemnities

Change of control

Directors’ Responsibility Statement

Disclosure of information to the auditor

Financial Instruments

Share capital disclosures 

Acquisition of own shares (share buyback programme)

Directors’ Powers

Post Balance Sheet Events

Overseas branches

Governance Report pages 56 to 92

Governance Report pages 58 and 59

Governance Report page 68

Governance Report page 68

Governance Report page 63

Remuneration Report page 86 
Borrowings and net debt note page 141

Statement of Directors’ responsibilities page 92

Statement of Directors’ responsibilities page 92

Financial risk management note pages 142 to 148

Share capital note page 155

Share capital note page 155

Governance Report page 57 
Share capital note page 155

Post Balance Sheet Event note page 163

Subsidiary undertakings note page 186

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202291

Listing Rules Disclosure
Information required by the Financial Conduct Authority’s Listing Rules can be found as set out below. There are no further disclosures 
required in accordance with Listing Rule 9.8R.

Listing Rule

9.8.4R(1)

Disclosure

Capitalised interest

9.8.4R(12)(13)

Dividend waiver

9.8.6R(1)

9.8.6R(2)

9.8.6R(3)(a)(b)

9.8.6R(4)(a)

Directors’ interests

Major shareholders’ interests

Going Concern and Viability Statement

Purchase of own shares

9.8.6R(5)(6)(a) and (b)

UK Corporate Governance Code compliance

9.8.6R(7)

9.8.6R(8)(a) 

9.8.6R(9)

Unexpired term of Service Contract

Statement on inclusion of TCFD

Board diversity targets

Location

Discontinued operations note page 157 

Dividend note page 156

Remuneration Report pages 84 and 87

Table on page 91

Strategic Report page 54

Share capital note page 155

Governance Report page 56

Remuneration Report page 86

Sustainability at Smiths page 35

Governance Report page 67

Political donations
The Group did not give any money for political purposes in the UK, the EU or outside of the EU, nor did it make any political donations 
to political parties or other political organisations, or to any independent election candidates, or incur any political expenditure during 
the year. In accordance with the US Federal Election Campaign Act, Smiths provides administrative support to a federal Political 
Action Committee (PAC) in the US funded by the voluntary political contributions of eligible employees. The PAC is not controlled by 
the Company and all decisions regarding the amounts and recipients of contributions are directed by a steering committee comprising 
Government Relations employees and reported to all eligible to contribute to the PAC. Contributions to political organisations reported by 
the PAC during FY2022 totalled $8,000 (FY2021: $30,500).

Major shareholder’ interests
As at 31 July 2022, the Company had been notified under the Financial Conduct Authority’s Disclosure Guidance & Transparency Rules, 
or had received disclosures pursuant to the Companies Act 2006, of the following holdings of voting rights in its shares:

Number of voting rights

BlackRock, Inc.

Ameriprise Financial, Inc.

Artemis Investment Management LLP

Harris Associates L.P.

Dodge & Cox

Jupiter Asset Management

Number of voting rights

% of total voting rights

23.3m

20.8m

19.8m

19.7m

19.2m

14.8m

5.9

5.3

5.0

5.0

5.0

3.8

No further notifications were received between 1 August and 16 September 2022

Date of notification

31 May 2018

3 October 2018

14 April 2020

22 July 2019

12 March 2022

22 September 2016

By order of the Board

Matthew Whyte
COMPANY SECRETARY

22 September 2022

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202292

In accordance with Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rule 
4.1.14R, the financial statements will form part of the annual 
financial report prepared using the single electronic reporting 
format under the Transparency Directive European Single 
Electronic Format (‘ESEF’) Regulation. The auditor’s report 
on these financial statements provides no assurance over the 
ESEF format.

Directors’ responsibility statement

Each of the Directors (who are listed on pages 58 and 59) confirms 
that to the best of his or her knowledge:

 – The financial statements, which have been prepared in 

accordance with the applicable set of accounting standards, give 
a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and 
profit or loss of the Company and the undertakings included in 
the consolidation taken as a whole;

 – The Strategic Report and Group Directors’ Report, together the 
management report, includes a fair review of the development 
and performance of the business and the position of the 
Company and the undertakings included in the consolidation 
taken as a whole, together with a description of the principal 
risks and uncertainties that they face; and

 – As at the date of this Annual Report and financial statements, 
there is no relevant audit information of which the Company’s 
auditor is unaware. Each Director has taken all the steps he or 
she should have taken as a Director in order to make himself or 
herself aware of any relevant audit information and to establish 
that the Company’s auditor is aware of that information.

We consider the Annual Report and financial statements, taken 
as a whole, is fair, balanced and understandable and provides the 
information necessary for shareholders to assess the Group’s 
position and performance, business model and strategy.

Signed on behalf of the Board of Directors:

Paul Keel 
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER 

Clare Scherrer
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

22 September 2022

Statement of Directors’ responsibilities 
in respect of the Annual Report and the 
financial statements
The Directors are responsible for preparing the Annual Report, 
including a Strategic Report, Directors’ Report, Directors’ 
Remuneration Report and Corporate Governance Statement, 
and the Group and Parent Company financial statements in 
accordance with applicable law and regulations. 

Company law requires the Directors to prepare Group and Parent 
Company financial statements for each financial year. Under that 
law the Directors have elected to prepare the Group financial 
statements in accordance with international accounting standards 
in conformity with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 
and applicable law and have elected to prepare the Parent 
Company financial statements in accordance with UK accounting 
standards and applicable law (UK Generally Accepted Accounting 
Practice), including FRS 101 ‘Reduced Disclosure Framework.’

Under company law the Directors must not approve the financial 
statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair 
view of the state of affairs of the Group and the Parent Company 
and of their profit or loss for that period. In preparing each of the 
Group and Parent Company financial statements, the Directors 
are required to:

 – Select suitable accounting policies and then apply 

them consistently;

 – Make judgements and estimates that are reasonable, relevant, 

reliable and prudent;

 – For the Group financial statements, state whether applicable 
UK-adopted international accounting standards have been 
followed for the group financial statements;

 – For the Parent Company financial statements, state whether 
applicable United Kingdom Accounting Standards have been 
followed subject to any material departures disclosed and 
explained in the Parent Company financial statements;

 – Assess the Group and Parent Company’s ability to continue as 
a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to 
going concern; and

 – Use the going concern basis of accounting unless they either 

intend to liquidate the Group or the Parent Company or to cease 
operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

The Directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting 
records that are sufficient to show and explain the Parent 
Company’s transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy 
at any time the financial position of the Parent Company and 
enable them to ensure that its financial statements comply with 
the Companies Act 2006 and, as regards the Group financial 
statements, Article 4 of the IAS Regulation. The Directors are 
also responsible for such internal control as they determine is 
necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that 
are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or 
error and have a general responsibility for taking such steps as 
are reasonably open to them to safeguard the assets of the Group 
and to prevent and detect fraud and other irregularities. 

The Directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity 
of the corporate governance and financial information included 
on the Company’s website. Legislation in the United Kingdom 
governing the preparation and dissemination of the financial 
statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORT03 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202293

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

INDEPENDENT 
AUDITOR’S 
REPORT 

to the members of Smiths Group plc

1 Our opinion is unmodified 
We have audited the financial statements of Smiths Group plc 
(“the Company”) for the year ended 31 July 2022 which comprise 
the consolidated income statement, consolidated statement of 
comprehensive income, consolidated balance sheet, consolidated 
statement of changes in equity, consolidated cash-flow statement, 
Company balance sheet, Company statement of changes in equity, 
and the related notes, including the accounting policies on pages 
108 to 115.

In our opinion:

 – the financial statements give a true and fair view of the state of 
the Group’s and of the Parent Company’s affairs as at 31 July 
2022 and of the Group’s profit for the year then ended;  

 – the Group financial statements have been properly 

prepared in accordance with UK-adopted international 
accounting standards;  

 – the parent Company financial statements have been properly 

prepared in accordance with UK accounting standards, including 
FRS 101 Reduced Disclosure Framework; and  

 – the financial statements have been prepared in accordance with 

the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.  

Basis for opinion  
We conducted our audit in accordance with International 
Standards on Auditing (UK) (“ISAs (UK)”) and applicable law.  Our 
responsibilities are described below.  We believe that the audit 
evidence we have obtained is a sufficient and appropriate basis for 
our opinion.  Our audit opinion is consistent with our report to the 
Audit & Risk Committee.  

We were first appointed as auditor by the shareholders on 
13 November 2019.  The period of total uninterrupted engagement 
is for the three financial years ended 31 July 2022.  We have 
fulfilled our ethical responsibilities under, and we remain 
independent of the Group in accordance with, UK ethical 
requirements including the FRC Ethical Standard as applied to 
listed public interest entities.  No non-audit services prohibited by 
that Standard were provided.  

04 Financial statements

93-187

Independent auditor’s report 

Consolidated primary statements 

Consolidated income statement 

Consolidated statement of comprehensive income 

Consolidated balance sheet 

Consolidated statement of changes in equity 

Consolidated cash-flow statement 

Accounting policies 

Notes to the accounts 

1  Segment information 

2  Operating costs 

3  Non-statutory profit measures 

4  Net finance costs 

5  Earnings per share 

6 

Taxation 

7  Employees 

8  Retirement benefits 

9  Employee share schemes 

10 

Intangible assets 

11 

Impairment testing 

12  Property, plant and equipment 

13  Right of use assets 

14  Financial assets – other investments 

15 

Inventories 

16  Trade and other receivables 

17  Trade and other payables 

18  Borrowings and net debt 

19  Financial risk management 

20  Derivative financial instruments 

21  Fair value of financial instruments 

22  Commitments 

23  Provisions and contingent liabilities 

24  Share capital 

25  Dividends 

26  Reserves 

27 

 Discontinued operations and  
businesses held for sale 

28 

 Cash-flow 

29 

 Alternative performance measures and  
key performance indicators 

30 

 Post Balance Sheet Events 

31  Audit exemption taken for subsidiaries 

Unaudited five-year Group financial record 

Unaudited US dollar primary statements 

Smiths Group plc Company accounts 

Company balance sheet 

Company statement of changes in equity 

Company accounting policies 

Notes to the Company accounts 

Subsidiary undertakings 

93

103

104

105

106

107

108

116

120

121

123

124

124

127

128

133

134

135

137

138

138

138

139

140

140

142

148

150

151

151

155

156

156

157

159

160

163

163

164

165

171

172

173

176

180

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSINDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

Overview
Materiality: group financial statements 
as a whole

94

£16 million (2021: £11.3 million).

5.1% of Group profit before taxation from continuing operations normalised to exclude the 
effect of specific items as explained in section 5 of this report. 

(2021: 4.5% of Group profit before taxation from continuing operations normalised to 
exclude the effect of specific items and by averaging over the last three years).

Coverage:

82% (2021: 70%) of Group profit before taxation from continuing operations.

Key audit matters
Recoverability of Goodwill in respect of the Smiths Detection cash generating unit (CGU) (Group)

Estimation of litigation provisions for asbestos in John Crane, Inc. (Group)

Valuation of UK defined benefit SIPS’s pension scheme liabilities and accounting of settlement loss in TIGPS 
pension scheme (Parent Company) 

vs 2021

▲

‹ ›

▼

Recoverability of goodwill in respect of the Smiths 
Detection cash generating unit (CGU) (Group) (£644 
million (2021: £610 million)) Refer to page 71 (Audit & Risk 
Committee Report), page 108 (accounting policies) and 
page 135 (financial disclosures)    

Risk vs 2021: increase

The risk – subjective estimate and forecast  
based assessment
The Group holds a significant amount of goodwill, especially in relation 
to the Smiths Detection cash generating unit (CGU). The value in 
use calculation for the Smiths Detection CGU, which represents 
the estimated recoverable amount, is subjective due to the inherent 
uncertainty involved in forecasting and discounting estimated future 
cash flows (specifically the key assumptions - discount rate, projected 
cost inflation and 5-year revenue growth rate). 

As part of our risk assessment, we determined that the value in 
use of the CGU has a high degree of estimation uncertainty, with a 
potential range of reasonable outcomes greater than our materiality 
for the financial statements as a whole, and possibly many times 
that amount. 

The financial statements (note 11) disclose the sensitivity estimated 
by management. These disclosures give relevant information about 
the estimation uncertainty including the risk of a reduction in the 
headroom or need for an impairment as a result of a reasonably 
possible change in one or more of the key assumptions used in the 
value in use calculation for this CGU.

2 Changes to Key Audit Matters
As at 31 July 2021, we identified a key audit matter (Group) in 
relation to the recoverability of capitalised development costs 
for the Intellifuse programme within assets held for sale in the 
Smiths Medical division.  Following the sale of the Smiths Medical 
division during the year, this is no longer a relevant risk of material 
misstatement and therefore no longer a key audit matter.

As at 31 July 2021, we identified a key audit matter (Parent 
Company) in relation to defined benefit pension liabilities which 
included both the TIGPS and SIPS pension schemes. Following the 
execution of a buy-in insurance policy for the TIGPS scheme 
during the current year, this is no longer a relevant risk of 
material misstatement and therefore no longer a key audit matter. 
We continue to recognise UK SIPS pension scheme as a key audit 
matter (Parent Company) in the current year.  In addition, the audit 
of the buy-in transaction is considered to be an area which had 
significant effect on our overall audit strategy and allocation of 
resources in planning and completing the audit and is therefore 
included as a key audit matter. 

3  Key audit matters: our assessment  
of risks of material misstatement
Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional 
judgement, were of most significance in the audit of the financial 
statements and include the most significant assessed risks of 
material misstatement (whether or not due to fraud) identified by 
us, including those which had the greatest effect on: the overall 
audit strategy; the allocation of resources in the audit; and directing 
the efforts of the engagement team.  We summarise below the key 
audit matters, in decreasing order of audit significance, in arriving 
at our audit opinion above, together with our key audit procedures to 
address those matters and, as required for public interest entities, 
our results from those procedures.  These matters were addressed, 
and our results are based on procedures undertaken, in the context 
of, and solely for the purpose of, our audit of the financial statements 
as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, and consequently are 
incidental to that opinion, and we do not provide a separate opinion on 
these matters. 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSINDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

Our response 
We performed the tests below rather than seeking to rely on any 
of the Group’s controls because the nature of the balance is such 
that we would expect to obtain audit evidence primarily through 
the detailed procedures described. Our procedures included: 

 – Benchmarking assumptions and historical comparison: 
Assessing and challenging the key assumptions through 
retrospective review and comparison to external 
industry forecasts. 

 – Our sector experience: Using our valuations specialists to 
challenge the appropriateness of discount rates by deriving 
our own independent range and used external market data 
to challenge management assumption of 5-year revenue 
growth rates.

 – Sensitivity analysis: Estimating the value in use utilising 

independent and more conservative forecasts and discount 
rates and assessing whether this resulted in impairment. 

 – Comparing valuations: Using our valuation specialist, 

comparing the valuation per the value in use impairment model 
against expected enterprise valuations per analyst reports and 
comparable companies’ earnings multiple. 

 – Assessing transparency: Assessing the adequacy of the 

Group’s disclosures in respect of the judgement and estimates 
around goodwill recoverability for the Smiths Detection CGU, 
including disclosures of the sensitivity in the value in use 
calculations to changes in the key assumptions.

Our results
We found the carrying amount of goodwill related to the Smiths 
Detection CGU to be acceptable (2021: acceptable) and we found 
the sensitivity disclosure made to be acceptable (2021: acceptable).

95

Estimation of litigation provisions for asbestos in John 
Crane, Inc. £229 million (2021: £212 million)) Refer to page 
72 (Audit & Risk Committee Report), page 108 (accounting 
policies) and page 151 (financial disclosures)

Risk vs 2021: unchanged

The risk – subjective estimate 
There are significant judgements and estimates involved in the 
assumptions underlying the provisions in respect of John Crane, 
Inc. asbestos litigation, including the projection period, forecast 
number of future claims and associated claim and defence costs 
applied to the forecast and the methodology applied for estimating 
the provision.

The effect of these matters is that, as part of our risk assessment, 
we determined that the litigation provision has a high degree 
of estimation uncertainty, with a potential range of reasonable 
outcomes greater than our materiality for the financial statements 
as a whole and possibly many times that amount. The financial 
statements (note 23) disclose the sensitivity estimated by 
the Group.

Our response 
We performed the tests below rather than seeking to rely on any 
of the Group’s controls because the nature of the balance is such 
that we would expect to obtain audit evidence primarily through 
the detailed procedures described. Our procedures included: 

 – Our actuarial expertise: Challenging the key judgement of the 

ten-year projection period using our own actuarial specialist and 
our sector knowledge and expertise.

 – Benchmarking assumptions: Using our own actuarial 

specialists, we derived our own independent range of the 
estimated provision. 

 – Enquiry of lawyers: Obtaining external independent legal 

confirmations of historical and ongoing claims and agreeing to 
the historical and ongoing claims data used by management 
expert for estimating the future projected cost and claims. 
 – Assessed management’s expert: Assessing the competency, 

knowledge and independence of the expert using our 
own specialist. 

 – Assessing methodology: Evaluating the methodology applied by 
management to the estimation to assess that the methodology 
utilised is in line with industry practice. 

 – Historical comparison: Assessing and challenging the projected 
indemnity and defence expenditure through retrospective review 
of incurred cost.

 – Assessing transparency: Assessing whether the disclosures 
of the effect of reasonably possible changes in key judgements 
and assumptions reflects the risks inherent in the provisions’ 
estimation. 

Our results 
We found the level of litigation provisioning and related disclosures 
in the financial statements in respect of John Crane Inc. 
asbestos litigation to be acceptable (2021: acceptable).

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSINDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

96

Valuation of UK defined benefit SIPS pension scheme 
liabilities (£1,603 million (2021: 2,078 million)) and 
accounting of settlement loss and past service cost in 
relation to TIGPS pension scheme buy-in ((£195 million 
(2021: Nil)) (Parent Company) Refer to page 72 (Audit & 
Risk Committee Report), page 108 (accounting policies)  
and page 128 (financial disclosures) 

Risk vs 2021: decrease 

The risk - subjective valuation and  
significant transaction
Significant estimates are made in valuing the Company’s 
post retirement defined benefit plan obligations in particular 
the discount rates, the inflation rates, mortality and pension 
increase assumptions. Small changes in the assumptions used 
to determine the liabilities, in particular those relating to discount 
rates, inflation and mortality can have a significant impact on 
the valuation of the liabilities. The effect of these matters is that, 
as part of our risk assessment, we determined that the pension 
assumptions have a high degree of estimation uncertainty, with 
a potential range of reasonable outcomes greater than our 
materiality for the financial statements as a whole, and possibly 
many times that amount. 

In conducting our final audit work, following the buy-in secured 
during the current year with an intention to fully buy-out the 
scheme in the near future, we reassessed the degree of 
estimation uncertainty for TIGPS scheme to be less than that 
materiality. However, the audit of the buy-in transaction is 
considered to be an area which had significant effect on our 
overall audit strategy and allocation of resources in planning and 
completing the audit with regard to the quantum of the settlement 
loss and the accounting of the transaction as a settlement rather 
than an investment decision.

Our response 
We performed the tests below rather than seeking to rely on any 
of the Group’s controls because the nature of the balance is such 
that we would expect to obtain audit evidence primarily through 
the detailed procedures described. Our procedures included: 

 – Benchmarking assumptions: Challenging the key assumptions 
applied in the calculation of the liability, including the discount 
rates, inflation rates, mortality and pension increases with the 
support of our own actuarial specialists by comparing against 
market data. 

 – Assessing actuary’s credentials: Assessing the competence, 

independence and integrity of the scheme’s actuary. 
 – Inspection of relevant documents: Inspecting contract 

documents, trustee minutes, project plan and communications 
to assess whether the buy-in transaction has been accounted for 
appropriately in accordance with IAS 19 using our own actuarial 
specialists and our sector knowledge and expertise.  

 – Test of detail: Confirmed the transfer of assets to the insurer to 
fund the initial premium for the buy-in. We reconciled the benefit 
cash flows, administration and other expenses with external 
evidence obtained.

 – Assessing transparency: Considering the adequacy of the 
disclosures in respect of the sensitivity of the obligation to 
key assumptions and the disclosure in respect of the buy-
in transaction.

Our results 
We found the valuation of the pension scheme liabilities of SIPS 
scheme to be acceptable (2021: acceptable) and we found the 
sensitivity disclosure made to be acceptable (2021: acceptable).

We found the accounting of the settlement loss and past service 
cost for TIGPS scheme in the period to be acceptable (2021: Nil).

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSINDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

4 The impact of climate change on our audit
We have considered the potential impacts of climate change on the 
financial statements as part of planning our audit. As the Group 
has set out on page 40, climate change has the potential to give 
rise to a number of transition risks and opportunities and physical 
risks and opportunities. The Group has stated their commitment 
to achieve Net Zero for Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2040 and to 
achieve Net Zero for Scope 3 emissions by 2050. The areas of the 
financial statements that are most likely to be potentially affected 
by climate related changes and initiatives are future loss of revenue 
due to supply chain challenges. The Group considered the impact 
of climate change and the Group’s targets in the preparation of 
the financial statements, as described on page 39, and concluded 
this did not have a material effect on the consolidated financial 
statements. We performed a risk assessment, taking into account 
climate change risks and the commitments made by the Group. 
We held inquiries of management regarding their processes for 
assessing the potential impact of climate change risk on the Group’s 
financial statements and held discussions with our own climate 
change professionals to challenge our risk assessment.  

Based on our risk assessment we determined that the balances 
in these financial statements are not at significant risk in relation 
to climate change. This is because, based on our risk assessment, 
the long-term growth rate is not identified as a key assumption a 
reasonably possible change in which could result in an impairment 
in relation to the estimated value in use of the Smiths Detection 
CGU. Hence, we assessed that there is not a significant impact on 
our audit for this financial year. There was no impact of climate 
change on our key audit matters included in section 3. We have read 
the Group’s disclosure of climate related information in the front half 
of the Annual Report as set out on pages 35 to 40 and considered 
consistency with the financial statements and our audit knowledge.

97

5  Our application of materiality and an 
overview of the scope of our audit  

Materiality 
Materiality for the Group financial statements as a whole was set 
at £16 million (2021: £11.3 million), determined with reference to a 
benchmark of Group profit before tax from continuing operations 
normalised to exclude foreign exchange gain on intercompany 
loan with discontinued operations, of £22 million (2021: £50 million 
loss), retirement benefit scheme settlement loss £171 million 
(2021: Nil), past service equalisation cost £43 million (2021: Nil) 
and impairment of assets £19 million (2021 : Nil). Materiality for 
the 2021 Group financial statements as a whole was determined 
with reference to a benchmark of Group profit before tax from 
continuing operations normalised as described above and also 
by averaging over the last three years due to the impact of the 
COVID-19 pandemic. The Group team performed procedures on 
the excluded items. 

Materiality for the Parent Company financial statements as a 
whole was set at £15.8 million (2021: £11.0 million), determined 
with reference to a benchmark of Parent Company total assets, 
limited to be less than materiality for Group materiality as a whole. 
It represents 0.4%% (2021: 0.5%) of total assets. 

In line with our audit methodology, our procedures on 
individual account balances and disclosures were performed 
to a lower threshold, performance materiality, so as to reduce 
to an acceptable level the risk that individually immaterial 
misstatements in individual account balances add up to a 
material amount across the financial statements as a whole. 
Performance materiality was set at 65% (2021: 65%) of materiality 
for the financial statements as a whole, which equates to 
£10.4 million (2021: £7.3million) for the Group and £10.2 million 
(2021: £7.2 million) for the Parent company. We applied this 
percentage in our determination of performance materiality 
based on the level of identified audit misstatements and control 
deficiencies during the prior year. We agreed to report to the 
Audit & Risk Committee any corrected or uncorrected identified 
misstatements exceeding £0.8 million (2021: £0.6 million), 
in addition to other identified misstatements that warranted 
reporting on qualitative grounds.

Materiality
Group profit before tax from continuing operations, normalised to exclude specific items - £ 314 million (2021: Group 
profit before tax from continuing operations, normalised to exclude specific items and by averaging over the last three 
years due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic - £253 million) 

£16m

(2021: £11.3 million) 
Whole financial statements materiality 

£10.4m

(2021: £7.3 million) 
Whole financial statements performance materiality 

£15.8m

(2021: £11.0 million)  
Range of materiality at 32 (2021: 34) components  
(£0.6m – £15.8m) (2021: £0.6m – £11m)

£0.8m

(2021: £0.6m) 
Misstatements reported to the Audit & Risk Committee

  Group profit before tax from continuing 
operations, normalised to exclude 
specific items

 Group materiality

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSINDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

Scope
The Group operates in more than 50 countries across six 
continents with the largest footprints being in the US, Europe 
and Asia. The Group is organised into four divisions: John 
Crane, Smiths Detection, Flex-Tek and Smiths Interconnect is a 
consolidation of over 250 reporting components. Smiths Medical 
division was sold in current year (discontinued operations).  We 
scoped the audit by obtaining an understanding of the Group and 
its environment and assessing the risk of material misstatement 
at the Group level. We have considered components based on 
their contribution to Group revenue; Group Assets and Group 
profit before tax for continuing operations including whether we 
had sufficient coverage over each division and the specific risks in 
the components. 

Of the Group’s 253 (2021: 254) reporting components, we 
subjected 23 (2021: 24) to full scope audits for Group purposes 
and 9 (2021:8) to specified risk-focused audit procedures or audit 
of specific account balances. The components for which we 
performed audit of specific account balances were not individually 
financially significant enough to require a full scope audit for Group 
purposes but were included in the scope of our Group reporting 
work in order to provide further coverage over the Group’s results. 

The components for which we performed specified risk-focused 
audit procedures were not individually financially significant 
enough to require an audit for Group reporting purposes but did 
present specific individual risks that needed to be addressed. 
Specified risk-focused audit procedures were performed over a 
number of areas, including litigation provisions and defined benefit 
pension assets and liabilities. 

The Group audit performed analytical procedures over the trading 
results of the discontinued operation (the Smiths Medical division) 
and substantive test over the disposal accounting and resultant 
profit on sale recognized in the consolidated financial statements. 

The scope of the audit work performed was predominately 
substantive as we placed limited reliance upon the Group’s 
internal control over financial reporting.

The components within the scope of our work accounted for 
the following percentages of the Group’s results for continuing 
operations are shown, right.

The remaining 26% (2021: 26%) of total Group revenue, 18% 
(2021: 30%) of Group profit before tax from continuing operations 
and 25% (2021: 21%) of total Group assets is represented by 
reporting components which individually did not represent more 
than 1% (2021: 3%) of any of total Group revenue for continuing 
operations, Group profit before tax for continuing operations or 
total Group assets. For these residual components, we performed 
an analysis at an aggregated Group level to re-examine our 
assessment that there were no significant risks of material 
misstatement within these components. 

98

The Group’s results 

GROUP REVENUE

74%

(2021 74%)

GROUP PROFIT BEFORE TAX

GROUP TOTAL ASSETS 

82%

(2021 70%)

75%

(2021 79%)

2022

Group 
revenue

Group profit 
before tax

Group total 
assets

   Full scope for group audit 

57%

76%

68%

purposes

  Audit of Account Balance

   Specified risk-focused  

audit procedures

17%

–

6%

–

3%

4%

  Residual components

26%

18%

25%

2021

   Full scope for group audit 

60%

61%

69%

purposes

  Audit of Account Balance

   Specified risk-focused  

audit procedures

14%

–

7%

2%

7%

3%

  Residual components

26%

30%

21%

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS99

We considered whether these risks could plausibly affect the 
liquidity or covenant compliance in the going concern period by 
comparing severe but plausible downside scenarios that could 
arise from these risks individually and collectively against the 
level of available financial resources and covenant thresholds 
indicated by the Group’s financial forecasts. We also assessed the 
completeness of the going concern disclosure.

Our conclusions based on this work:
 – we consider that the Directors’ use of the going concern basis 
of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements 
is appropriate;

 – we have not identified, and concur with the Directors’ 

assessment that there is not, a material uncertainty related to 
events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast 
significant doubt on the Group’s or Company’s ability to continue 
as a going concern for the going concern period;

 – we have nothing material to add or draw attention to in relation to 
the Directors’ statement on page 92 to the financial statements 
on the use of the going concern basis of accounting with no 
material uncertainties that may cast significant doubt over the 
Group and Company’s use of that basis for the going concern 
period, and we found the going concern disclosure on page 54 to 
be acceptable; and

 – the related statement under the Listing Rules set out on page 

91 is materially consistent with the financial statements and our 
audit knowledge.

However, as we cannot predict all future events or conditions and 
as subsequent events may result in outcomes that are inconsistent 
with judgements that were reasonable at the time they were made, 
the above conclusions are not a guarantee that the Group or the 
Company will continue in operation.  

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

The Group audit team instructed component auditors as to the 
significant areas to be covered, including the relevant risks 
detailed above and the information to be reported back. The Group 
audit team set the component materiality which ranged from 
£0.6 million to £15.8 million (2021: £0.6 million to £11.0 million), 
having regard to the mix of size and risk profile of the Group 
across the components. The work on 30 of the 32 (2021: 33 of the 
34) components was performed by component auditors and the 
audit of the Parent Company was performed by the Group team. 
The work on Smiths Medical including disposal accounting was 
performed by the Group team. 

Regular video conference meetings were held with all in-scope 
components attended by senior group audit team members. 
These meetings involved explanation of Group audit instructions, 
involvement in planning audit procedures, discussing progress 
updates and emerging findings, reviewing outcomes of testing 
performed and involvement in discussing audit findings with 
component management. The Group audit team routinely 
reviewed the audit documentation of all component audits through 
various stages of their audits. We were unable to visit one China 
component (not financially significant) and remote access to 
audit documentation is prohibited by local law. As a result of this 
restriction, we extended our oversight of this component’s audit 
through extended discussion with component audit team.

6 Going concern  
The Directors have prepared the financial statements on the going 
concern basis as they do not intend to liquidate the Group or the 
Company or to cease their operations, and as they have concluded 
that the Group’s and the Company’s financial position means that 
this is realistic. They have also concluded that there are no material 
uncertainties that could have cast significant doubt over their ability 
to continue as a going concern for at least a year from the date of 
approval of the financial statements (“the going concern period”).  

We used our knowledge of the Group, its industries and the general 
economic environment to identify the inherent risks to its business 
model and analysed how those risks might affect the Group’s and 
Company’s financial resources or ability to continue operations 
over the going concern period. The risks that we considered most 
likely to adversely affect the Group’s and Company’s available 
financial resources and metrics relevant to debt covenants over this 
period were: 

 – Adverse trading conditions and impact on the Group’s operations 

or that of its suppliers and customers, such as delays and 
cancellations of orders and deliveries, as a result of recurrence 
of COVID 19 disruption, resulting in a significant deterioration in 
the Group’s liquidity position.

 – Product quality failure which would result in reputational 

damage amongst customers and therefore reduction in orders 
and customer loss as well as potential significant liability claims 
raised against the Group. 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS100

Identifying and responding to risks of material 
misstatement due to non-compliance with laws 
and regulations 
We identified areas of laws and regulations that could reasonably 
be expected to have a material effect on the financial statements 
from our general commercial and sector experience, through 
discussion with the Directors and other management (as required 
by auditing standards), and from inspection of the Group’s 
regulatory and legal correspondence and discussed with the 
Directors and other management the policies and procedures 
regarding compliance with laws and regulations. 

As the Group is regulated, our assessment of risks involved 
gaining an understanding of the control environment including the 
entity’s procedures for complying with regulatory requirements. 

We communicated identified laws and regulations throughout our 
team and remained alert to any indications of non-compliance 
throughout the audit. This included communication from the 
group to full-scope component audit teams of relevant laws 
and regulations identified at the Group level, and a request for 
full scope component auditors to report to the Group team any 
instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations that could 
give rise to a material misstatement at Group. 

The potential effect of these laws and regulations on the financial 
statements varies considerably. 

Firstly, the Group is subject to laws and regulations that directly 
affect the financial statements including financial reporting 
legislation (including related companies legislation), distributable 
profits legislation, taxation legislation and pensions legislation, 
and we assessed the extent of compliance with these laws and 
regulations as part of our procedures on the related financial 
statement items. 

Secondly, the Group is subject to many other laws and regulations 
where the consequences of non-compliance could have a material 
effect on amounts or disclosures in the financial statements, for 
instance through the imposition of fines or litigation. We identified 
the following areas as those most likely to have such an effect: 
health and safety, anti-bribery and corruption, considering 
dealings with government customers, employment law, and 
certain aspects of company legislation recognising the regulated 
nature of the Medical division activities and its legal form. 
Auditing standards limit the required audit procedures to identify 
non-compliance with these laws and regulations to enquiry of the 
Directors and other management and inspection of regulatory and 
legal correspondence, if any. Therefore, if a breach of operational 
regulations is not disclosed to us or evident from relevant 
correspondence, an audit will not detect that breach.

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

7  Fraud and breaches of laws and 
regulations – ability to detect

Identifying and responding to risks of material 
misstatement due to fraud 
To identify risks of material misstatement due to fraud (“fraud 
risks”) we assessed events or conditions that could indicate an 
incentive or pressure to commit fraud or provide an opportunity to 
commit fraud. Our risk assessment procedures included: 

 – Enquiring of Directors, the Audit & Risk Committee, internal 

audit and inspection of policy documentation as to the Group’s 
high-level policies and procedures to prevent and detect fraud, 
including the internal audit function, and the Group’s channel for 
“whistleblowing”, as well as whether they have knowledge of any 
actual, suspected or alleged fraud. 

 – Reading Board, Audit & Risk, Disclosure, Transactions, 
Nomination & Governance, Remuneration & People, 
Investments and Executive Committee minutes. 

 – Considering remuneration incentive schemes and performance 
targets for management and Directors including the EPS target 
for management remuneration.

 – Using analytical procedures to identify any unusual or 

unexpected relationships.

We communicated identified fraud risks throughout the audit team 
and remained alert to any indications of fraud throughout the audit. 
This included communication from the Group to full scope and 
audit of specific account balances scope component audit teams of 
relevant fraud risks identified at the Group level and requesting the 
full scope and audit account balance scope component audit teams 
to report to the Group audit team any instances of fraud that could 
give rise to a material misstatement at Group. 

As required by auditing standards and taking into account possible 
pressures to meet profit targets, and our overall knowledge of the 
control environment, we perform procedures to address the risk of 
management override of controls and the risk of fraudulent revenue 
recognition, in particular in the Smiths Detection Inc, USA and 
Smiths Detection Germany GmbH components a significant portion 
of multi- year contracts (programme revenue) revenue is normally 
recognised in the last month of the year. Therefore, there is a risk of 
revenue being overstated during the year end closing period through 
the manipulation of the timing of recording of the sale transaction 
from such pressure. We did not identify any additional fraud risks. 

We performed procedures including: 

 – Identifying journal entries to test for all components within full 
scope and audit of specific account balances scope based on 
risk criteria and comparing the identified entries to supporting 
documentation. These included unusual entries in revenue 
accounts, cash and cash equivalents or borrowings accounts 
and entries posted by senior finance management.

 – Testing consolidation adjustment entries posted and comparing 

the identified entries to supporting documentation.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSINDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

Context of the ability of the audit to detect fraud  
or breaches of law or regulation 
Owing to the inherent limitations of an audit, there is an 
unavoidable risk that we may not have detected some material 
misstatements in the financial statements, even though we have 
properly planned and performed our audit in accordance with 
auditing standards. For example, the further removed non-
compliance with laws and regulations is from the events and 
transactions reflected in the financial statements, the less likely 
the inherently limited procedures required by auditing standards 
would identify it. 

In addition, as with any audit, there remained a higher risk of 
non-detection of fraud, as these may involve collusion, forgery, 
intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of 
internal controls. Our audit procedures are designed to detect 
material misstatement. We are not responsible for preventing 
non-compliance or fraud and cannot be expected to detect non-
compliance with all laws and regulations.

8  We have nothing to report on the other 

information in the Annual Report 

The Directors are responsible for the other information presented 
in the Annual Report together with the financial statements.  Our 
opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other 
information and, accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion 
or, except as explicitly stated below, any form of assurance 
conclusion thereon.  

Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, 
consider whether, based on our financial statements audit work, 
the information therein is materially misstated or inconsistent with 
the financial statements or our audit knowledge.  Based solely on 
that work we have not identified material misstatements in the 
other information.  

Strategic Report and Directors’ Report  
Based solely on our work on the other information:  

 – we have not identified material misstatements in the Strategic 

Report and the Directors’ Report;  

 – in our opinion the information given in those reports for the 

financial year is consistent with the financial statements; and  
 – in our opinion those reports have been prepared in accordance 

with the Companies Act 2006.  

101

Directors’ Remuneration Report  
In our opinion the part of the Directors’ Remuneration Report to 
be audited has been properly prepared in accordance with the 
Companies Act 2006.  

Disclosures of emerging and principal risks and 
longer-term viability  
We are required to perform procedures to identify whether there 
is a material inconsistency between the Directors’ disclosures in 
respect of emerging and principal risks and the viability statement, 
and the financial statements and our audit knowledge.  

Based on those procedures, we have nothing material to add or 
draw attention to in relation to:  

 – the Directors’ confirmation within the viability statement page 54 
that they have carried out a robust assessment of the emerging 
and principal risks facing the Group, including those that would 
threaten its business model, future performance, solvency 
and liquidity;  

 – the Principal Risks disclosures describing these risks and how 
emerging risks are identified, and explaining how they are being 
managed and mitigated; and  

 – the Directors’ explanation in the viability statement of how they 
have assessed the prospects of the Group, over what period 
they have done so and why they considered that period to be 
appropriate, and their statement as to whether they have a 
reasonable expectation that the Group will be able to continue in 
operation and meet its liabilities as they fall due over the period 
of their assessment, including any related disclosures drawing 
attention to any necessary qualifications or assumptions.  

We are also required to review the Viability Statement, set out on 
page 54 under the Listing Rules. Based on the above procedures, 
we have concluded that the above disclosures are materially 
consistent with the financial statements and our audit knowledge.

Our work is limited to assessing these matters in the context of 
only the knowledge acquired during our financial statements 
audit.  As we cannot predict all future events or conditions and as 
subsequent events may result in outcomes that are inconsistent 
with judgements that were reasonable at the time they were made, 
the absence of anything to report on these statements is not a 
guarantee as to the Group’s and Company’s longer-term viability.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSINDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

Corporate governance disclosures  
We are required to perform procedures to identify whether there 
is a material inconsistency between the Directors’ corporate 
governance disclosures and the financial statements and our 
audit knowledge.

Based on those procedures, we have concluded that each of the 
following is materially consistent with the financial statements and 
our audit knowledge:   

 – the Directors’ statement that they consider that the Annual 
Report and financial statements taken as a whole is fair, 
balanced and understandable, and provides the information 
necessary for shareholders to assess the Group’s position and 
performance, business model and strategy; 

 – the section of the Annual Report describing the work of the  

Audit & Risk Committee, including the significant issues that the 
Audit & Risk Committee considered in relation to the financial 
statements, and how these issues were addressed; and

 – the section of the Annual Report that describes the review of 

the effectiveness of the Group’s risk management and internal 
control systems.

We are required to review the part of the Corporate Governance 
Statement relating to the Group’s compliance with the provisions 
of the UK Corporate Governance Code specified by the Listing 
Rules for our review. We have nothing to report in this respect.  

9  We have nothing to report on the other 
matters on which we are required to 
report by exception  

Under the Companies Act 2006, we are required to report to you if, 
in our opinion:  

 – adequate accounting records have not been kept by the parent 
Company, or returns adequate for our audit have not been 
received from branches not visited by us; or  

 – the parent Company financial statements and the part of 

the Directors’ Remuneration Report to be audited are not in 
agreement with the accounting records and returns; or  

 – certain disclosures of Directors’ remuneration specified by law 

are not made; or  

102

Auditor’s responsibilities  
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether 
the financial statements as a whole are free from material 
misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue 
our opinion in an auditor’s report.  Reasonable assurance is a 
high level of assurance, but does not guarantee that an audit 
conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a 
material misstatement when it exists.  Misstatements can arise 
from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually 
or in aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence 
the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of the 
financial statements.  

A fuller description of our responsibilities is provided on the FRC’s 
website at www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities.  

The Company is required to include these financial statements 
in an annual financial report prepared using the single electronic 
reporting format specified in the TD ESEF Regulation.  This 
auditor’s report provides no assurance over whether the annual 
financial report has been prepared in accordance with that format.

11  The purpose of our audit work and to 
whom we owe our responsibilities  
This report is made solely to the Company’s members, as a 
body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies 
Act 2006.  Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might 
state to the Company’s members those matters we are required 
to state to them in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose.  
To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or 
assume responsibility to anyone other than the Company and the 
Company’s members, as a body, for our audit work, for this report, 
or for the opinions we have formed.  

Michael Maloney
SENIOR STATUTORY AUDITOR 

for and on behalf of KPMG LLP, Statutory Auditor  
Chartered Accountants  
15 Canada Square 
London E14 5GL

 – we have not received all the information and explanations we 

Date: 22 September 2022

require for our audit.  

We have nothing to report in these respects.  

10 Respective responsibilities  

Directors’ responsibilities  
As explained more fully in their statement set out on page 90, 
the Directors are responsible for: the preparation of the financial 
statements including being satisfied that they give a true and 
fair view; such internal control as they determine is necessary to 
enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from 
material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error; assessing 
the Group and parent Company’s ability to continue as a going 
concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going 
concern; and using the going concern basis of accounting unless 
they either intend to liquidate the Group or the parent Company or 
to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.  

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSCONSOLIDATED PRIMARY STATEMENTS

Consolidated income statement

CONTINUING OPERATIONS
Revenue
Operating costs

Operating profit/(loss)

Interest receivable
Interest payable
Other financing gains/(losses)
Other finance income – retirement benefits

Finance (costs)/income

Profit/(loss) before taxation

Taxation

Profit/(loss) for the year

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
Profit/(loss) from discontinued operations

PROFIT/(LOSS) FOR THE YEAR

Profit/(loss) for the year attributable to: 
Smiths Group shareholders – continuing operations
Smiths Group shareholders – discontinued operations
Non-controlling interests

EARNINGS PER SHARE
Basic
Basic – continuing
Diluted
Diluted – continuing

103

Year ended 31 July 2022

Year ended 31 July 2021

Total 
£m

2,566
(2,449)

117

14
(55)
20
7

(14)

103

(90)

13

–
(300)

(300)

–
–
20
7

27

(273)

14

(259)

973

714

1,022

1,035

(259)
973
–

714

11
1,022
2

1,035

267.1p
2.8p
266.0p
2.8p

Headline 
£m

Non-headline 
(note 3) 
£m

2,406
(2,034)

372

9
(49)
–
–

(40)

332

(96)

236

134

370

235
134
1

370

–
(46)

(46)

–
–
(52)
6

(46)

(92)

13

(79)

(6)

(85)

(79)
(6)
–

(85)

Total 
£m

2,406
(2,080)

326

9
(49)
(52)
6

(86)

240

(83)

157

128

285

156
128
1

285

71.7p
39.4p
71.3p

39.1p

Headline 
£m

Non-headline 
(note 3) 
£m

Notes

2,566
(2,149)

417

14
(55)
–
–

(41)

376

(104)

272

49

321

270
49
2

321

1

2

2

4

4

4

4

4

6

27

5

References in the consolidated income statement, consolidated statement of comprehensive income, consolidated balance sheet, 
consolidated statement of changes in equity and consolidated cash-flow statement relate to notes on pages 116 to 163, which form an 
integral part of the consolidated accounts.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSCONSOLIDATED PRIMARY STATEMENTS

Consolidated statement of comprehensive income

PROFIT FOR THE YEAR 

  Other comprehensive income (OCI) 

  OCI which will not be reclassified to the income statement:
  Re-measurement of retirement benefits assets and obligations
  Taxation on post-retirement benefits movements
  Fair value movements on financial assets at fair value through OCI

  OCI which will be reclassified and reclassifications:
  Fair value gains and reclassification adjustments:
  – deferred in the period on cash-flow and net investment hedges
  – reclassified to income statement on cash-flow and net investment hedges

  Foreign exchange (FX) movements net of recycling:
  Exchange gains/(losses) on translation of foreign operations
  Exchange gains recycled to the income statement on disposal of business

Total other comprehensive income, net of taxation
Total comprehensive income 

Attributable to: 
Smiths Group shareholders
Non-controlling interests

Total comprehensive income attributable to Smiths Group shareholders arising from:

Continuing operations 

Discontinued operations

104

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Notes

Year ended 
31 July 2021
represented* 
£m

1,035

285

8

6

14

(17)
–
(63)

(80)

(82)
5

(77)

276
(196)

80

(77)
958

957
1

958

131
827

958

13
(6)
4

11

82
2

84

(166)
–

(166)
(71)
214

214
–

214

152

62

214

*   The comparative year has been represented to include ‘Fair value movements on financial assets at fair value through OCI’ within the ‘OCI which will not be reclassified to the income 

statement’ subtotal rather than within the ‘OCI which will be reclassified and reclassifications’ subtotal. This reclassification has no impact on total other comprehensive income in the 
comparative year ended 31 July 2021.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
 
CONSOLIDATED PRIMARY STATEMENTS

Consolidated balance sheet

NON-CURRENT ASSETS

Intangible assets
Property, plant and equipment
Right of use assets
Financial assets – other investments
Retirement benefit assets
Deferred tax assets
Trade and other receivables
Financial derivatives

CURRENT ASSETS
Inventories
Current tax receivable
Trade and other receivables
Cash and cash equivalents
Financial derivatives
Assets held for sale

TOTAL ASSETS

CURRENT LIABILITIES
Financial liabilities:
– borrowings
– lease liabilities
– financial derivatives
Provisions
Trade and other payables
Current tax payable
Liabilities held for sale

NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES
Financial liabilities:
– borrowings
– lease liabilities
– financial derivatives
Provisions
Retirement benefit obligations
Corporation tax payable
Deferred tax liabilities
Trade and other payables

TOTAL LIABILITIES

NET ASSETS

SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Share capital
Share premium account
Capital redemption reserve
Revaluation reserve
Merger reserve
Cumulative translation adjustments 
Retained earnings
Hedge reserve

Total shareholders’ equity
Non-controlling interest equity

TOTAL EQUITY

105

Notes

31 July 2022 
£m

31 July 2021 
£m

10

12

13

14

8

6

16

20

15

6

16

18

20

27

18

18

20

23

17

6

27

18

18

20

23

8

6

6

17

24

26

26

26

26

26

1,588
243
106
395
309
95
69
–

2,805

570
50
738
1,056
4
–

2,418

5,223

(509)
(29)
(27)
(88)
(682)
(64)
–

(1,399)

(538)
(90)
(20)
(247)
(115)
(3)
(44)
(46)

(1,103)

(2,502)

2,721

136
365
19
–
235
487
1,659
(202)

2,699

22

2,721

1,498
212
108
11
546
92
59
75

2,601

381
75
630
405
2
1,243

2,736

5,337

(9)
(27)
(3)
(46)
(530)
(89)
(283)

(987)

(1,372)
(94)
–
(241)
(128)
(5)
(28)
(59)

(1,927)
(2,914)

2,423

149
363
6
1
235
509
1,367
(228)

2,402
21

2,423

The accounts on pages 103 to 163 were approved by the Board of Directors on 22 September 2022 and were signed on its behalf by: 
Paul Keel 
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER  

Clare Scherrer
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
 
CONSOLIDATED PRIMARY STATEMENTS

Consolidated statement of changes in equity

Share capital 
 and share 
premium 
£m

Other 
 reserves 
£m

Cumulative 
translation 
adjustments 
£m

Notes

At 31 July 2021

  Profit for the year
  Other comprehensive income: 
   – re-measurement of retirement benefits 
     after tax
  – FX movements net of recycling
  – fair value gains and related tax

Total comprehensive income for the year

Transactions relating to ownership 
interests: 
Issue of new equity shares
Purchase of shares by Employee Benefit 
Trust
Proceeds from exercise of share options
Share buybacks
Dividends:
– equity shareholders
Share-based payment

At 31 July 2022

24

24

25

9

512

–

–
–
–

–

2

–
–
(13)

–
–

501

242

–

–
(1)
–

(1)

–

–
–
13

–
–

509

–

–
(22)
–

(22)

–

–
–
–

–
–

106

Total 
equity 
£m

2,423

1,035

(17)
80
(140)

958

2

(16)
1
(511)

(150)
14

Retained  
earnings 
£m

1,367

1,033

Hedge 
reserve 
£m

(228)

–

(17)
1
(63)

954

–

(16)
1
(511)

(150)
14

–
103
(77)

26

–

–
–
–

–
–

Equity
shareholders’
funds
£m

Non-
controlling 
interest 
£m

2,402

1,033

(17)
81
(140)

957

2

(16)
1
(511)

(150)
14

21

2

–
(1)
–

1

–

–
–
–

–
–

254

487

1,659

(202)

2,699

22

2,721

Equity 
shareholders’ 
funds 
£m

Non-
controlling 
interest 
£m

Share capital 
 and share 
premium 
£m

Other 
 reserves 
£m

Cumulative 
translation 
adjustments 
£m

Notes

At 31 July 2020

510

242

  Profit for the year
  Other comprehensive income: 
   – re-measurement of retirement benefits 
     after tax
  – FX movements net of recycling
  – fair value gains and related tax

Total comprehensive income for the year

Transactions relating to ownership 
interests: 
Exercises of share options
Receipt of capital from non-controlling 
interest
Purchase of own shares
Dividends:
– equity shareholders
– non-controlling interest
Share-based payment

24

24

25

9

–

–
–
–

–

2

–
–

–
–
–

–

–
–
–

–

–

–
–

–
–
–

674

–

–
(165)
–

(165)

–

–
–

–
–
–

Retained  
earnings 
£m

1,259

284

Hedge 
reserve 
£m

(312)

–

7
–
4

295

–

–
(16)

(185)
–
14

–
–
84

84

–

–
–

–
–
–

2,373

284

7
(165)
88

214

2

–
(16)

(185)
–
14

At 31 July 2021

512

242

509

1,367

(228)

2,402

Total 
equity 
£m

2,394

285

7
(166)
88

214

2

1
(16)

(185)
(1)
14

2,423

21

1

–
(1)
–

–

–

1
–

–
(1)
–

21

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSCONSOLIDATED PRIMARY STATEMENTS

Consolidated cash-flow statement

Net cash inflow from operating activities
Cash-flows from investing activities
Expenditure on capitalised development
Expenditure on other intangible assets
Purchases of property, plant and equipment
Disposals of property, plant and equipment
Capital returned by other investments
Acquisition of businesses
Investment in financial asset – discontinued operations
Proceeds on disposal of subsidiaries, net of cash disposed

Net cash-flow used in investing activities

Cash-flows from financing activities
Proceeds from exercise of share options
Share buybacks
Purchase of shares by Employee Benefit Trust
Proceeds received on exercise of employee share options
Settlement of cash-settled options
Dividends paid to equity shareholders
Lease payments
Reduction and repayment of borrowings
Cash inflow from matured derivative financial instruments

Net cash-flow used in financing activities

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
Movement in net cash held in disposal group
Foreign exchange rate movements

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year comprise:
– cash at bank and in hand
– short-term deposits

– bank overdrafts

107

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

279

535

Notes

28

(22)
(8)
(58)
3
–
–
–
1,331

(27)
(12)
(78)
2
7
(83)
(14)
–

1,246

(205)

24

24

26

25

2
(511)
(16)
1
(1)
(150)
(38)
(295)
23

(985)

540

405
48
62 

18

1,055

242
814

1,056
(1)

1,055

2
–
(16)
–
–
(185)
(44)
–
4

(239)

91
366
(28)
(24)

405

219

186
405

– 
405

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS108

ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of preparation
The accounts have been prepared in accordance with International 
Accounting Standards in conformity with the requirements of the 
Companies Act 2006.

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared under the 
historical cost convention modified to include revaluation of certain 
financial instruments, share options and pension assets and liabilities, 
held at fair value as described below. 

Going concern
The Directors are satisfied that the Group has adequate resources to 
continue to operate for a period not less than 12 months from the date 
of approval of the financial statements and that there are no material 
uncertainties around their assessment. Accordingly, the Directors 
continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting.

The Group’s business activities, together with the factors likely to 
affect its future development, performance and position, are set out in 
the Strategic Report on pages 5 to 55. The Group’s financial position, 
cash-flows, liquidity and borrowing facilities are described in the CFO 
review section on pages 15 to 16.

Other factors considered by the Board as part of their going concern 
assessment included the inherent uncertainties in cash-flow 
forecasts. Based on the above, the Directors have concluded that 
the Group is well placed to manage its financing and other business 
risks satisfactorily, and they have a reasonable expectation that the 
Group will have adequate resources to continue in operation for at 
least 12 months from the signing date of these financial statements. 
They therefore consider it appropriate to adopt the going concern 
basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

Key estimates and significant judgements 
The preparation of the accounts in conformity with generally accepted 
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and 
judgements that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities 
and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the 
accounts and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during 
the reporting period. Actual results may differ from these estimates. 

The key sources of estimation uncertainty together with the 
significant judgements and assumptions used for these consolidated 
financial statements are set out below.

Sources of estimation uncertainty

Impairment reviews of intangible assets
In carrying out impairment reviews of intangible assets, a number 
of significant assumptions have to be made when preparing cash-
flow projections to determine the value in use of the asset or cash 
generating unit (CGU). These include the future rate of market 
growth, discount rates, the market demand for the products 
acquired, the future profitability of acquired businesses or products, 
levels of reimbursement, and success in obtaining regulatory 
approvals. If actual results differ or changes in expectations arise, 
impairment charges may be required which would adversely impact 
operating results.

Critical estimates, and the effect of variances in these estimates, are 
disclosed in note 11.

Retirement benefits
Determining the value of the future defined benefit obligation involves 
significant estimates in respect of the assumptions used to calculate 
present values. These include future mortality, discount rate and 
inflation. The Group uses previous experience and independent actuarial 
advice to select the values for critical estimates. A portion of UK pension 
liabilities are insured via bulk annuity policies which broadly match the 
scheme obligation to identified groups of pensioners. These assets are 

valued by an external qualified actuary at the actuarial valuation of the 
corresponding liability, reflecting this matching relationship.

The Group's principal defined benefit pension plans are in the UK 
and the US and these have been closed so that no future benefits 
are accrued. Critical estimates for these plans, and the effect of 
variances in these estimates, are disclosed in note 8.

Provisions for liabilities and charges
The Group has made provisions for claims and litigations where 
it has had to defend itself against proceedings brought by other 
parties.  These provisions have been made for the best estimate 
of the expected expenditure required to settle each obligation, 
although there can be no guarantee that such provisions (which 
may be subject to potentially material revision from time to time) 
will accurately predict the actual costs and liabilities that may be 
incurred.  The most significant of these litigation provisions are 
described below.

John Crane, Inc. (JCI), a subsidiary of the Group, is one of many co-
defendants in litigation relating to products previously manufactured 
which contained asbestos. Provision of £229m (FY2021: £212m) has 
been made for the future defence costs which the Group is expected 
to incur and the expected costs of future adverse judgements 
against JCI. Whilst well-established incidence curves can be used to 
estimate the likely future pattern of asbestos-related disease, JCI’s 
claims experience is significantly impacted by other factors which 
influence the US litigation environment. These can include: changing 
approaches on the part of the plaintiffs’ bar; changing attitudes 
amongst the judiciary at both trial and appellate levels; and legislative 
and procedural changes in both the state and federal court systems. 
Because of the significant uncertainty associated with the future level 
of asbestos claims and of the costs arising out of the related litigation, 
there can be no guarantee that the assumptions used to estimate the 
provision will result in an accurate prediction of the actual costs that 
will be incurred. 

In quantifying the expected costs JCI takes account of the advice of 
an expert in asbestos liability estimation. The following estimates 
were made in preparing the provision calculation: 

 – the period over which the expenditure can be reliably estimated 
is judged to be ten years, based on past experience regarding 
significant changes in the litigation environment that have 
occurred every few years and on the amount of time taken 
in the past for some of those changes to impact the broader 
asbestos litigation environment. See note 23 for a sensitivity 
showing the impact on the provision of reducing or increasing 
this time horizon; 

 – the future trend of legal costs, the rate of future claims filed, the 
rate of successful resolution of claims, and the average amount 
of judgements awarded have been projected based on the past 
history of JCI claims and well-established tables of asbestos 
incidence projections, since this is the best available evidence. 
Claims history from other defendants is not used to calculate the 
provision because JCI’s defence strategy generates a significantly 
different pattern of legal costs and settlement expenses. See note 23 
for a sensitivity showing the range of expected future spend. 

Titeflex Corporation, a subsidiary of the Group in the Flex-Tek division, 
has received a number of claims from insurance companies seeking 
recompense on a subrogated basis for the effects of damage allegedly 
caused by lightning strikes in relation to its flexible gas piping 
product. It has also received a number of product liability claims 
regarding this product, some in the form of purported class actions. 
Titeflex Corporation believes that its products are a safe and effective 
means of delivering gas when installed in accordance with the 
manufacturer’s instructions and local and national codes; however, 
some claims have been settled on an individual basis without 
admission of liability. Provision of £52m (FY2021: £47m) has been 
made for the costs which the Group is expected to incur in respect of 
these claims. In preparing the provision calculation, key estimates 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSACCOUNTING POLICIES

have been made about the impact of safe installation initiatives on the 
level of future claims. See note 23 for a sensitivity showing the impact 
on the provision of reducing or increasing the expected impact. 
However, because of the significant uncertainty associated with the 
future level of claims, there can be no guarantee that the assumptions 
used to estimate the provision will result in an accurate prediction of 
the actual costs that may be incurred. 

Taxation
The Group has recognised deferred tax assets of £103m 
(FY2021: £144m) relating to losses and £69m (FY2021: £65m) 
relating to the John Crane, Inc. and Titeflex Corporation litigation 
provisions. The recognition of assets pertaining to these items 
requires management to make significant estimates as to the 
likelihood of realisation of these deferred tax assets and the phasing 
and attribution of future taxable profits. This is based on a number 
of factors, which management use to assess the expectation that 
the benefit of these assets will be realised, including expected 
future levels of operating profit, expenditure on litigation, pension 
contributions and the timing of the unwind of other tax positions.

Taxation liabilities included provisions of £38m (FY2021: £34m), the 
majority of which related to the risk of challenge to the geographic 
allocation of profits by tax authorities.

In addition to the risks provided for, the Group faces a variety of 
other tax risks, which result from operating in a complex global 
environment, including the ongoing reform of both international and 
domestic tax rules, new and ongoing tax audits in the Group’s larger 
markets and the challenge to fulfil ongoing tax compliance filing 
and transfer pricing obligations given the scale and diversity of the 
Group’s global operations.

The Group anticipates that a number of tax audits are likely to 
conclude in the next 12 to 24 months. Due to the uncertainty 
associated with such tax items, it is possible that the conclusion 
of open tax matters may result in a final outcome that varies 
significantly from the amounts noted above.

Revenue recognition
Revenue is recognised as the performance obligations to deliver 
products or services are satisfied and revenue is recorded based on 
the amount of consideration expected to be received in exchange for 
satisfying the performance obligations. 

Smiths Detection and Smiths Interconnect have multi-year 
contractual arrangements for the sale of goods and services. 
Where these contracts have separately identifiable components with 
distinct patterns of delivery and customer acceptance, revenue is 
accounted for separately for each identifiable component.

The Group enters into certain contracts for agreed fees that are 
performed across more than one accounting period and revenue is 
recognised over time. Estimates are required at the balance sheet 
date when determining the stage of completion of the contract activity. 
This assessment requires the expected total costs of the contract and 
the remaining costs to complete the contract to be estimated. 

At 31 July 2022, the Group held contracts with a total value of £181m 
(2021: £166m), of which £135m (2021: £99m) had been delivered and 
£47m (2021: £67m) remains fully or partially unsatisfied. £37m of 
the unsatisfied amount is expected to be recognised in the coming 
year, with the remainder being recognised within two years. A 5% 
increase in the remaining cost to complete the contracts would have 
reduced Group operating profit in the current year by less than £2m 
(2021: less than £2m).

Valuation of financial assets
Following the sale of Smiths Medical the Group has recognised 
a financial asset for the fair value of the $100m additional 
sales consideration that is contingent on the future share price 
performance of the enlarged ICU Medical, Inc (ICU) business.

109

The earnout requires the Group to retain beneficial ownership of 
at least 1.25m ICU shares and for the ICU share price to average 
$300 or more for any 30-day period during the first three years 
post-completion, or for any 45-day period in the fourth year post-
completion.

An external valuation firm has been engaged to undertake Monte 
Carlo valuation simulations in order to estimate the probability of the 
future ICU share price exceeding $300. These valuation simulations 
have determined a fair value of £19m (US$23m).

Significant judgements made in applying 
accounting policies 

Business combinations
On the acquisition of a business, the Group has to make judgements 
on the identification of specific intangible assets which are 
recognised separately from goodwill and then amortised over their 
estimated useful lives. These include items such as brand names 
and customer lists, to which value is first attributed at the time 
of acquisition. The capitalisation of these assets and the related 
amortisation charges are based on judgements about the value and 
economic life of such items.

Where acquisitions are significant, appropriate advice is sought 
from professional advisers before making such allocations. 

Where the Group has a contractual option to acquire a business in 
the future, management have applied judgement in determining 
whether it has substantive voting rights in the business and whether 
the business should be accounted for as a subsidiary or associate. 
In applying these judgements, management have reviewed whether 
the option and any related legal/commercial agreements provide 
the Group with power or significant influence over the business 
and have assessed whether there are any barriers that prevent the 
Group from exercising these rights.

Retirement benefits
At 31 July 2022 the Group has recognised £309m of retirement 
benefit assets (FY2021: £546m) and a net pension asset of £194m 
(FY2021: £413m), principally relating to the Smiths Industries Pension 
Scheme ('SIPS'), which arises from the rights of the employers to 
recover the surplus at the end of the life of the scheme. 

The recognition of this surplus is a significant judgement. There is 
judgement required in determining whether an unconditional right of 
refund exists based on the provisions of the relevant trust deed and 
rules. Having taken legal advice with regard to the rights of the Group 
under the relevant Trust deed and rules, it has been determined 
that the surplus is recoverable by the Group and therefore can be 
recognised. In particular, in the ordinary course of business, the 
trustees of the scheme do not have a unilateral power to terminate 
and wind-up the scheme or augment benefits. If the pension scheme 
was wound up while it still had members, the scheme would need 
to buy out the benefits of all members. The buyout would cost 
significantly more than the carrying value of the scheme liabilities 
within these financial statements which are calculated in accordance 
with IAS 19: Employee benefits.

Capitalisation of development costs
Expenditure incurred in the development of major new products is 
capitalised as internally generated intangible assets only when it has 
been judged that strict criteria are met, specifically in relation to the 
products' technical feasibility and commercial viability (the ability to 
generate probable future economic benefits). 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSACCOUNTING POLICIES

110

The assessment of technical feasibility and future commercial 
viability of development projects requires significant judgement and 
the use of assumptions. Key judgements made in the assessment of 
future commercial viability include:
 – Scope of work to achieve regulatory clearance (where required) – 

including the level of testing evidence and documentation; 

 – Competitor activity – including the impact of potential competitor 
product launches on the market place and customer demand; and

 – Launch timeline – including time and resource required to 

establish and support the commercial launch of a new product.

Taxation
As stated in the previous section 'Sources of estimation 
uncertainty', the Group has recognised deferred tax assets of 
£103m (FY2021: £144m) relating to losses and £69m (FY2021: £65m) 
relating to the John Crane, Inc. and Titeflex Corporation litigation 
provisions. The decision to recognise deferred tax assets requires 
judgement in determining whether the Group will be able to utilise 
historical tax losses in future periods. It has been concluded 
that there are sufficient taxable profits in future periods to 
support recognition. 

The Group has also applied judgement in the decisions made to 
recognise provisions against uncertain tax positions; please see  
note 6 for further details.

Presentation of headline profits and  
organic growth
In order to provide users of the accounts with a clear and consistent 
presentation of the performance of the Group’s ongoing trading 
activity, the income statement is presented in a three-column 
format with 'headline' profits shown separately from non-headline 
items. In addition, the Group reports organic growth rates for sales 
and profit measures. 

See note 1 for disclosures of headline operating profit and note 29 
for more information about the alternative performance measures 
('APMs') used by the Group.

Judgement is required in determining which items should be 
included as non-headline. The amortisation/impairment of acquired 
intangibles, legacy liabilities, material one-off items and certain 
re-measurements are included in a separate column of the income 
statement. See note 3 for a breakdown of the items excluded from 
headline profit.

Calculating organic growth also requires judgement. 
Organic growth adjusts the movement in headline performance to 
exclude the impact of foreign exchange, restructuring costs and 
acquisitions. This definition of organic growth is the same as that 
used for underlying growth in previous accounting periods.

Significant accounting policies

Basis of consolidation
The Group’s consolidated accounts include the financial statements 
of Smiths Group plc (the ‘Company’) and all entities controlled by the 
Company (its subsidiaries). A list of the subsidiaries of Smiths Group 
plc is provided on pages 180 to 186.

The Company controls an entity when it (i) has power over the entity; 
(ii) is exposed or has rights to variable returns from its involvement 
with the entity; and (iii) has the ability to affect those returns through 
its power over the entity. The Group reassesses whether or not it 
controls a subsidiary if facts and circumstances indicate that there 
are changes to one or more of these three elements of control. 
Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date on which control is 
obtained by the Company to the date that control ceases. 

Where the Group loses control of a subsidiary, the assets and 
liabilities are derecognised along with any related non-controlling 
interest and other components of equity. Any resulting gain or loss 
is recognised in the income statement. Any interest retained in the 
former subsidiary is measured at fair value when control is lost.

The non-controlling interests in the Group balance sheet represent 
the share of net assets of subsidiary undertakings held outside the 
Group. The movement in the year comprises the profit attributable 
to such interests together with any dividends paid, movements in 
respect of corporate transactions and related exchange differences.

Interests in associates are accounted for using the equity method. 
They are initially recognised at cost, which includes transaction 
costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, the Group financial 
statements include the Group’s share of the profit or loss and other 
comprehensive income of equity-accounted investees, until the date 
on which significant influence ceases.

All intercompany transactions, balances, and gains and losses 
on transactions between Group companies are eliminated 
on consolidation.

Foreign currencies
The Company’s presentational currency and functional currency is 
sterling. The financial position of all subsidiaries and associates that 
have a functional currency different from sterling are translated into 
sterling at the rate of exchange at the date of that balance sheet, and 
the income and expenses are translated at average exchange rates 
for the period. All resulting foreign exchange rate movements are 
recognised as a separate component of equity.

On consolidation, foreign exchange rate movements arising from 
the translation of the net investment in foreign entities, and of 
borrowings and other currency instruments designated as hedges 
of such investments, are taken to shareholders’ equity. When a 
foreign operation is sold, the cumulative amount of such foreign 
exchange rate movements is recognised in the income statement as 
part of the gain or loss on sale.

Foreign exchange rate movements arising on transactions are 
recognised in the income statement. Those arising on trading are 
taken to operating profit; those arising on borrowings are classified 
as finance income or cost. 

Revenue
Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received, 
net of trade discounts (including distributor rebates) and sales 
taxes. Revenue is discounted only where the impact of discounting 
is material. 

When the Group enters into complex contracts with multiple, 
separately identifiable components, the terms of the contract 
are reviewed to determine whether or not the elements of the 
contract should be accounted for separately. If a contract is being 
split into multiple components, the contract revenue is allocated 
to the different components at the start of the contract. The basis 
of allocation depends on the substance of the contract. The Group 
considers relative stand-alone selling prices, contractual prices and 
relative cost when allocating revenue. 

The Group has identified the following different types of revenue:

(i) Sale of goods recognised at a point in time – generic products 
manufactured by Smiths 
Generic products are defined as either:
 – Products that are not specific to any particular customer; 
 – Products that may initially be specific to a customer but can be 

reconfigured at minimal cost, i.e. retaining a margin, for sale to an 
alternative customer; or

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSACCOUNTING POLICIES

111

 – Products that are specific to a customer but are manufactured at 
Smiths risk, i.e. we have no right to payment of costs plus margin 
if the customer refuses to take control of the goods.

For established products with simple installation requirements, 
revenue is recognised when control of the product is passed to 
the customer. The point in time that control passes is defined in 
accordance with the agreed shipping terms and is determined on 
a case by case basis. The time of despatch or delivery of the goods 
to the customer is normally the point at which invoicing occurs. 
However for some generic products, revenue is recognised when 
the overall performance obligation has been completed, which is 
often after the customer has completed its acceptance procedures 
and has assumed control.

Products that are sold under multiple element arrangements, i.e. 
contracts involving a combination of products and services, are 
bundled into a single performance obligation unless the customer 
can benefit from the goods or services either on their own, or 
together with other resources that are readily available to the 
customer and are distinct within the context of the contract.

For contracts that pass control of the product to the customer only 
on completion of installation services, revenue is recognised upon 
completion of the installation.

An obligation to replace or repair faulty products under the standard 
warranty terms is recognised as a provision. If the contract includes 
terms that either extend the warranty beyond the standard term 
or imply that maintenance is provided to keep the product working, 
these are service warranties and revenue is deferred to cover the 
performance obligation in an amount equivalent to the stand-alone 
selling price of that service.

(ii) Sale of goods recognised over time – customer-specific 
products where the contractual terms include rights to payment 
for work performed to date
Customer-specific products are defined as being:
 – Products that cannot be reconfigured economically such that it 

remains profitable to sell to another customer;

 – Products that cannot be sold to another customer due to 

contractual restrictions; and

(iii) Services recognised over time – services relating to the 
installation, repair and ongoing maintenance of equipment
Services include installation, commissioning, testing, training, 
software hosting and maintenance, product repairs and contracts 
undertaking extended warranty services.

For complex installations where the supply of services cannot be 
separated from the supply of product, revenue is recognised upon 
acceptance of the combined performance obligation (see Sale of 
goods (i) above). 

For services that can be accounted for as a separate performance 
obligation, revenue is recognised over time, assessed on the basis of 
the actual service provided as a proportion of the total services  
to be provided.

Depending on the nature of the contract, revenue is recognised 
as follows:
 – Installation, commissioning and testing services (when neither 
linked to the supply of product nor subject to acceptance) are 
recognised rateably as the services are provided;

 – Training services are recognised on completion of the 

training course; 

 – Software hosting and maintenance services are recognised 

rateably over the life of the contract;

 – Product repair services, where the product is returned to Smiths 
premises for remedial action, are recognised when the product is 
returned to the customer and they regain control of the asset;

 – On-site ad hoc product repair services are recognised rateably as 

the services are performed;

 – Long-term product repair and maintenance contracts are 

recognised rateably over the contract term; and

 – Extended service warranties are recognised rateably over the 

contract term.

Invoicing for services depends on the nature of the service provided 
with some services charged in advance and others in arrears.

Where contracts are accounted for under the revenue recognised 
over time basis, the proportion of costs incurred is used to 
determine the percentage of contract completion.

 – Products that allow Smiths to charge for the work performed to 

date in an amount that represents the costs incurred to date plus a 
margin, should the customer refuse to take control of the goods.

Contracts for the construction of substantial assets, which normally 
last in excess of one year, are accounted for under the revenue 
recognised over time basis, using an input method.

For contracts that meet the terms listed above, revenue is 
recognised over the period that the Group is engaged in the 
manufacture of the product, calculated using the input method 
based on the amount of costs incurred to date compared to the 
overall costs of the contract. This is considered to be a faithful 
depiction of the transfer of the goods to the customer as the costs 
incurred, total expected costs and total order value are known. 
The time of despatch or delivery of the goods to the customer is 
normally the point at which invoicing occurs.

An obligation to provide a refund for faulty products under the 
standard warranty terms is recognised as a provision. If the contract 
includes terms that either extend the warranty beyond the standard 
term or imply that maintenance is provided to keep the product 
working, these are service warranties and revenue is deferred to 
cover the performance obligation in an amount equivalent to the 
stand-alone selling price of that service.

For fixed-price contracts, revenue is recognised based upon an 
assessment of the amount of cost incurred under the contract, 
compared to the total expected costs that will be incurred under 
the contract. This calculation is applied cumulatively with any over/
under recognition being adjusted in the current period.

For cost-plus contracts, revenue is recognised based upon costs 
incurred to date plus any agreed margin. 

For both fixed-price and cost-plus contracts, invoicing is normally 
based on a schedule with milestone payments.

Contract costs
The Group has taken the practical expedient of not capitalising 
contract costs as they are expected to be expensed within one year 
from the date of signing. 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSACCOUNTING POLICIES

112

Leases
The Group recognises right of use assets at the commencement 
date of the lease. Right of use assets are measured at cost including 
the amount of lease liabilities recognised and initial direct costs 
incurred, less any incentives granted by the lessor. Right of use 
assets are depreciated over the shorter of the lease term and the 
useful life of the right of use assets, unless there is a transfer of 
ownership or purchase option which is reasonably certain to be 
exercised at the end of the lease term, in which case depreciation 
is charged over the useful life of the underlying asset. Right of use 
assets are subject to impairment.

Deferred tax is provided in full using the balance sheet liability 
method. A deferred tax asset is recognised where it is probable that 
future taxable income will be sufficient to utilise the available relief. 
Tax is charged or credited to the income statement except when it 
relates to items charged or credited directly to equity, in which case 
the tax is also dealt with in equity.

Deferred tax is provided on temporary differences arising on 
investments in subsidiaries and associates, except where the timing 
of the reversal of the temporary differences is controlled by the 
Company and it is probable that the temporary difference will not 
reverse in the foreseeable future.

Leases of buildings typically have lease terms between 1 and 
6 years, while plant and machinery generally have lease terms 
between 1 and 3 years. The Group also has certain leases of 
machinery with lease terms of 12 months or less and leases of office 
equipment with low value (typically below £5,000). The Group applies 
the 'short-term lease' and 'lease of low-value assets' recognition 
exemptions for these leases and recognises the lease payments 
associated with these leases as an expense on a straight-line basis 
over the lease term.

Taxation
The charge for taxation is based on profits for the year and 
takes into account taxation deferred because of temporary 
differences between the treatment of certain items for taxation and 
accounting purposes. 

Current income tax assets and liabilities are measured at 
the amount expected to be recovered from or paid to taxation 
authorities. Tax benefits are not recognised unless it is likely that 
the tax positions are sustainable. Tax positions taken are then 
reviewed to assess whether a provision should be made based on 
prevailing circumstances. Tax provisions are included in current tax 
liabilities. The tax rates and tax laws used to compute the amount 
are those that are enacted or substantively enacted, at the reporting 
date in the countries where the Group operates and generates 
taxable income.

The Group operates and is subject to taxation in many countries. 
Tax legislation is different in each country, is often complex and 
is subject to interpretation by management and government 
authorities. These matters of judgement give rise to the need to 
create provisions for uncertain tax positions which are recognised 
when it is considered more likely than not that there will be a 
future outflow of funds to a taxing authority. Provisions are made 
against individual exposures and take into account the specific 
circumstances of each case, including the strength of technical 
arguments, recent case law decisions or rulings on similar issues 
and relevant external advice.

The amounts are measured using one of the following methods, 
depending on which of the methods the Directors expect will better 
reflect the amount the Group will pay to the tax authority:
 – The single best estimate method is used where there is a single 

outcome that is more likely than not to occur. This will happen, for 
example, where the tax outcome is binary or the range of possible 
outcomes is very limited;

 – Alternatively, a probability weighted expected value is used 

where, on the balance of probabilities, there will be a payment to 
the tax authority but there are a number of possible outcomes. 
In this case, a probability is assigned to each of the outcomes 
and the amount provided is the sum of these risk-weighted 
amounts. In assessing provisions against uncertain tax positions, 
management uses in-house tax experts, professional firms and 
previous experience of the taxing authority to evaluate the risk. 

Deferred tax liabilities and assets are not discounted. 

Employee benefits 

Share-based compensation
The fair value of the shares or share options granted is recognised 
as an expense over the vesting period to reflect the value of the 
employee services received. The fair value of options granted, 
excluding the impact of any non-market vesting conditions, is 
calculated using established option pricing models, principally 
binomial models. The probability of meeting non-market vesting 
conditions, which include profitability targets, is used to estimate the 
number of share options which are likely to vest. 

For cash-settled share-based payment, a liability is recognised 
based on the fair value of the payment earned by the balance sheet 
date. For equity-settled share-based payment, the corresponding 
credit is recognised directly in reserves.

Pension obligations and post-retirement benefits
Pensions and similar benefits (principally healthcare) are accounted 
for under IAS 19. The retirement benefit obligation in respect of the 
defined benefit plans is the liability (the present value of all expected 
future obligations) less the fair value of the plan assets. 

The income statement expense is allocated between current service 
costs, reflecting the increase in liability due to any benefit accrued 
by employees in the current period, any past service costs/credits 
and settlement losses or gains which are recognised immediately, 
and the scheme administration costs.

Actuarial gains and losses are recognised in the statement 
of comprehensive income in the year in which they arise. 
These comprise the impact on the liabilities of changes in 
demographic and financial assumptions compared with the start of 
the year, actual experience being different to assumptions and the 
return on plan assets being above or below the amount included in 
the net pension interest cost.

Payments to defined contribution schemes are charged as an 
income statement expense as they fall due.

Intangible assets

Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the 
fair value of the Group’s share of the identifiable net assets of the 
acquired subsidiary at the date of acquisition.

The goodwill arising from acquisitions of subsidiaries after 1 August 
1998 is included in intangible assets, tested annually for impairment 
and carried at cost less accumulated impairment losses. Gains and 
losses on the disposal of an entity include the carrying amount 
of goodwill relating to the entity sold. The goodwill arising from 
acquisitions of subsidiaries before 1 August 1998 was set against 
reserves in the year of acquisition.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSACCOUNTING POLICIES 

Goodwill is tested for impairment at least annually. Should the test 
indicate that the net realisable value of the CGU is less than current 
carrying value, an impairment loss will be recognised immediately 
in the income statement. Subsequent reversals of impairment 
losses for goodwill are not recognised.

Research and development
Expenditure on research and development is charged to the income 
statement in the year in which it is incurred with the exception of:
 – Amounts recoverable from third parties; and
 – Expenditure incurred in respect of the development of major 

new products where the outcome of those projects is assessed 
as being reasonably certain as regards viability and technical 
feasibility. Such expenditure is capitalised and amortised over 
the estimated period of sale for each product, commencing in the 
year that the product is ready for sale. Amortisation is charged 
straight line or based on the units produced, depending on the 
nature of the product and the availability of reliable estimates 
of production volumes. 

The cost of development projects which are expected to take 
a substantial period of time to complete includes attributable 
borrowing costs.

Intangible assets acquired in business combinations
The identifiable net assets acquired as a result of a business 
combination may include intangible assets other than goodwill. 
Any such intangible assets are amortised straight line over their 
expected useful lives as follows:

Patents, licences  
and trademarks
Technology
Customer relationships

up to 20 years
up to 13 years
up to 11 years

The assets’ useful lives are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate,  
at each balance sheet date.

Software, patents and intellectual property
The estimated useful lives are as follows:

Software
Patents and intellectual  
property

up to 7 years
shorter of the economic life 
and the period the right is 
legally enforceable

The assets’ useful lives are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate,  
at each balance sheet date.

Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment are stated at historical cost less 
accumulated depreciation and any recognised impairment losses. 

Land is not depreciated. Depreciation is provided on other assets 
estimated to write off the depreciable amount of relevant assets 
by equal annual instalments over their estimated useful lives. 
In general, the rates used are: 

Freehold and long 
leasehold buildings
Short leasehold property
Plant, machinery, etc.
Fixtures, fittings, tools and 
other equipment

2% per annum
over the period of the lease
10% to 20% per annum

10% to 33% per annum

113

The cost of any assets which are expected to take a substantial 
period of time to complete includes attributable borrowing costs. 

The assets’ residual values and useful lives are reviewed, and 
adjusted if appropriate, at each balance sheet date. An asset’s 
carrying amount is written down immediately to its recoverable 
amount if the asset’s carrying amount is greater than its estimated 
recoverable amount.

Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. 
Cost is determined using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. 
The cost of finished goods and work in progress comprises raw 
materials, direct labour, other direct costs and related production 
overheads (based on normal operating capacity). The cost of items 
of inventory which take a substantial period of time to complete 
includes attributable borrowing costs. 

The net realisable value of inventories is the estimated selling price 
in the ordinary course of business, less applicable variable selling 
expenses. Provisions are made for any slow-moving, obsolete or 
defective inventories.

Trade and other receivables
Trade receivables and contract assets are initially recognised at 
fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost, less any 
appropriate provision for expected credit losses. 

A provision for expected credit losses is established when there is 
objective evidence that it will not be possible to collect all amounts 
due according to the original payment terms. Expected credit losses 
are determined using historical write-offs as a basis, with a default 
risk multiplier applied to reflect country risk premium. The Group 
applies the IFRS 9 simplified lifetime expected credit loss approach 
for trade receivables and contract assets which do not contain a 
significant financing component.

Provisions
Provisions are recognised when the Group has a present obligation 
(legal or constructive) as a result of a past event, it is probable 
that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will 
be required to settle the obligation, and a reliable estimate can be 
made of the amount of the obligation. Where the Group expects 
some or all of a provision to be reimbursed, for example under an 
insurance contract, the reimbursement is recognised as a separate 
asset but only when the reimbursement is virtually certain. 

Provisions for warranties and product liability, disposal indemnities, 
restructuring costs, property dilapidations and legal claims 
are recognised when: the Company has a legal or constructive 
obligation as a result of a past event; it is probable that an outflow of 
resources will be required to settle the obligation; and the amount 
has been reliably estimated. Provisions are not recognised for future 
operating losses.

Provisions are discounted where the time value of money 
is material.

Where there is a number of similar obligations, for example where 
a warranty has been given, the likelihood that an outflow will be 
required in settlement is determined by considering the class 
of obligations as a whole. A provision is recognised even if the 
likelihood of an outflow with respect to any one item included in the 
same class of obligations may be small.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSACCOUNTING POLICIES

Businesses held for sale
Businesses classified as held for sale are measured at the lower of 
carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell. Impairment losses 
on initial classification as held for sale and gains or losses on 
subsequent remeasurements are included in the income statement. 
No depreciation is charged on assets and businesses classified as 
held for sale. 

Businesses are classified as held for sale if their carrying amount 
will be settled principally through a sale rather than through 
continuing use and the following criteria are met:
 – The business must be a separate major line of business,  

available for immediate sale in its present condition;

 – Management is committed to the plan to sell the business and an 
active programme to locate a buyer and complete the plan must 
have been initiated;

 – The disposal group must be actively marketed for sale at a price 

that is reasonable in relation to its current fair value;

 – Shareholder and regulatory approval is highly probable and the 
plan is unlikely to be significantly changed or withdrawn; and

 – Sale is expected to be completed within 12 months of the balance 

sheet date.

The assets and liabilities of businesses held for sale are presented 
as separate lines on the balance sheet.

Discontinued operations
A discontinued operation is either: 
 – A component of the Group’s business that represents a separate 

major line of business or geographical area of operations that has 
been disposed of, has been abandoned or meets the criteria to be 
classified as held for sale; or 

 – A business acquired solely for the purpose of selling it.

Discontinued operations are presented on the income statement 
as a separate line and are shown net of tax.

In accordance with IAS 21, gains and losses on intra-group 
monetary assets and liabilities are not eliminated. Therefore foreign 
exchange rate movements on intercompany loans with discontinued 
operations are presented on the income statement as non-headline 
finance cost items.

Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash at bank and in hand and 
highly liquid interest-bearing securities with maturities of three 
months or less.

In the cash-flow statement, cash and cash equivalents are shown 
net of bank overdrafts, which are included as current borrowings  
in liabilities on the balance sheet. 

Financial assets
The classification of financial assets depends on the purpose for 
which the assets were acquired. Management determines the 
classification of an asset at initial recognition and re-evaluates 
the designation at each reporting date. Financial assets are 
classified as: measured at amortised cost, fair value through other 
comprehensive income or fair value through profit and loss.

114

Financial assets primarily include trade receivables, cash and 
cash equivalents (comprising cash at bank, money market funds, 
and short-term deposits), short-term investments, derivatives 
(foreign exchange contracts and interest rate derivatives) and 
unlisted investments.
 – Trade receivables are classified either as ‘held to collect’ and 

measured at amortised cost or as ‘held to collect and sell’ and 
measured at fair value through other comprehensive income 
(FVOCI). The Group may sell trade receivables due from certain 
customers before the due date. Any trade receivables from such 
customers that are not sold at the reporting date are classified as 
‘held to collect and sell’;

 – Cash and cash equivalents (consisting of balances with banks and 
other financial institutions, money-market funds and short-term 
deposits) and short-term investments are subject to low market 
risk. Cash balances and short-term investments are measured at 
amortised cost. Money market funds and short-term deposits are 
measured at fair value through profit and loss (FVPL);

 – Derivatives are measured at FVPL;
 – Listed and unlisted investments are measured at FVOCI; and
 – Deferred contingent consideration are measured at FVPL.

Financial assets are derecognised when the right to receive cash-
flows from the assets has expired, or has been transferred, and the 
Group has transferred substantially all of the risks and rewards of 
ownership. When securities classified as available for sale are sold 
or impaired, the accumulated fair value adjustments previously 
taken to reserves are included in the income statement. 

Financial assets are classified as current if they are expected to be 
realised within 12 months of the balance sheet date.

Financial liabilities
Borrowings are initially recognised at the fair value of the proceeds, 
net of related transaction costs. These transaction costs, and any 
discount or premium on issue, are subsequently amortised under 
the effective interest rate method through the income statement as 
interest over the life of the loan and added to the liability disclosed 
in the balance sheet. Related accrued interest is included in the 
borrowings figure.

Borrowings are classified as current liabilities unless the Group has 
an unconditional right to defer settlement of the liability for at least 
one year after the balance sheet date.

Derivative financial instruments and hedging activities 
The Group uses derivative financial instruments to hedge its 
exposures to foreign exchange and interest rates arising from its 
operating and financing activities.

Derivative financial instruments are initially recognised at fair value 
on the date a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently 
re-measured at their fair value. The method of recognising any 
resulting gain or loss depends on whether the derivative financial 
instrument is designated as a hedging instrument and, if so, the 
nature of the item being hedged.

Where derivative financial instruments are designated into hedging 
relationships, the Group formally documents the following:

 – the risk management objective and strategy for entering 

the hedge;

 – the nature of the risks being hedged and the economic 
relationship between the hedged item and the hedging 
instrument; and

 – whether the change in cash-flows of the hedged item and hedging 

instrument are expected to offset each other.

Changes in the fair value of any derivative financial instruments that 
do not qualify for hedge accounting are recognised immediately in 
the income statement.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS115

Dividends
Dividends are recognised as a liability in the period in which they 
are authorised. The interim dividend is recognised when it is paid 
and the final dividend is recognised when it has been approved by 
shareholders at the Annual General Meeting.

New accounting standards effective 2022
No new accounting standards have been adopted in the financial 
year. The accounting policies adopted in the preparation of these 
consolidated financial statements are consistent with those followed 
in the previous financial year.

New standards and interpretations  
not yet adopted
No other new standards, new interpretations or amendments 
to standards or interpretations have been published which 
are expected to have a significant impact on the Group’s 
financial statements.

Parent Company
The ultimate Parent Company of the Group is Smiths Group plc, 
a company incorporated in England and Wales and listed on the 
London Stock Exchange.

The accounts of the Parent Company, Smiths Group plc, have been 
prepared in accordance with the Companies Act 2006 and Financial 
Reporting Standard 101, 'Reduced Disclosure Framework'.

The Company accounts are presented in separate financial 
statements on pages 171 to 179. The principal subsidiaries of the 
Parent Company are listed in the above accounts.

ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Fair value hedge
The Group uses derivative financial instruments to convert part of 
its fixed rate debt to floating rate in order to hedge the risks arising 
from its external borrowings. 

The Group designates these as fair value hedges of interest rate 
risk. Changes in the hedging instrument are recorded in the 
income statement, together with any changes in the fair values of 
the hedged assets or liabilities that are attributable to the hedged 
risk to the extent that the hedge is effective. Gains or losses 
relating to any ineffectiveness are immediately recognised in the 
income statement.

Cash-flow hedge
Cash-flow hedging is used by the Group to hedge certain exposures 
to variability in future cash-flows. 

The effective portions of changes in the fair values of derivatives that 
are designated and qualify as cash-flow hedges are recognised in 
equity. The gain or loss relating to any ineffective portion is recognised 
immediately in the income statement. Amounts accumulated in the 
hedge reserve are recycled in the income statement in the periods 
when the hedged items will affect profit or loss (for example, when the 
forecast sale that is hedged takes place). 

If a forecast transaction that is hedged results in the recognition of 
a non-financial asset (for example, inventory) or a liability, the gains 
and losses previously deferred in the hedge reserve are transferred 
from the reserve and included in the initial measurement of the 
cost of the asset or liability. When a hedging instrument expires 
or is sold, or when a hedge no longer meets the criteria for hedge 
accounting, any cumulative gain or loss existing in the hedge 
reserve at that time remains in the reserve and is recognised 
when the forecast transaction is ultimately recognised in the 
income statement.

When a forecast transaction is no longer expected to occur, the 
cumulative gain or loss that was reported in other comprehensive 
income is immediately transferred to the income statement.

Net investment hedge
Hedges of net investments in foreign operations are accounted 
for similarly to cash-flow hedges. Any gain or loss on the hedging 
instrument relating to the effective portion of the hedge is 
recognised in other comprehensive income; the gain or loss relating 
to any ineffective portion is recognised immediately in the income 
statement. When a foreign operation is disposed of, gains and losses 
accumulated in equity related to that operation are included in the 
income statement for that period.

Fair value of financial assets and liabilities
The fair values of financial assets and financial liabilities are the 
amounts at which the instrument could be exchanged in a current 
transaction between willing parties, other than in a forced or 
liquidation sale. 

‘IFRS 13: Fair value measurement’ requires fair value 
measurements to be classified according to the following hierarchy:
 – Level 1 – quoted prices in active markets for identical assets 

or liabilities;

 – Level 2 – valuations in which all inputs are observable either 

directly (i.e. as prices) or indirectly (i.e. derived from prices); and

 – Level 3 – valuations in which one or more inputs that are 

significant to the resulting value are not based on observable 
market data.

See note 21 for information on the methods which the Group uses to 
estimate the fair values of its financial instruments. 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS116

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

1 Segment information

Analysis by operating segment
The Group is organised into four divisions: John Crane, Smiths Detection, Flex-Tek and Smiths Interconnect. These divisions design, 
manufacture and support the following products: 
 – John Crane – mechanical seals, seal support systems, power transmission couplings and specialised filtration systems; 
 – Smiths Detection – sensors and systems that detect and identify explosives, narcotics, weapons, chemical agents, biohazards and contraband; 
 – Flex-Tek – engineered components, flexible hosing and rigid tubing that heat and move fluids and gases; and
 – Smiths Interconnect – specialised electronic and radio frequency board-level and waveguide devices, connectors, cables, test sockets and 

sub-systems used in high-speed, high reliability, secure connectivity applications.

The position and performance of each division are reported at each Board meeting to the Board of Directors. This information is prepared 
using the same accounting policies as the consolidated financial information except that the Group uses headline operating profit to monitor 
the divisional results and operating assets to monitor the divisional position. See note 3 and note 29 for an explanation of which items are 
excluded from headline measures. 

The sale of the Group’s Smiths Medical business was completed on 6 January 2022 and the results of Smiths Medical are disclosed as a 
discontinued operation in note 27. Intersegment sales and transfers are charged at arm’s length prices.

Segment trading performance

Revenue

Divisional headline operating profit 
Corporate headline operating costs

Headline operating profit/(loss) 
Items excluded from headline measures (note 3)

Operating profit/(loss) 

Revenue 

Divisional headline operating profit 
Corporate headline operating costs 

Headline operating profit/(loss) 
Items excluded from headline measures (note 3)

Operating profit/(loss) 

Operating profit is stated after charging (crediting) the following items:

John  
Crane 
£m

Smiths 
 Detection 
£m

Flex-Tek 
£m

Smiths  
Interconnect 
£m

Corporate 
costs 
£m

901

188
–

188
(21)

167

655

73
–

73
(37)

36

John  
Crane 
£m

Smiths 
 Detection 
£m

865

187
–

187
(3)

184

721

99
–

99
(22)

77

647

133
–

133
(27)

106

Flex-Tek 
£m

508

97
–

97
(14)

83

Year ended 31 July 2022

363

65
–

65
(1)

64

–

–
(42)

(42)
(214)

(256)

Total 
£m

2,566

459
(42)

417
(300)

117

Year ended 31 July 2021

Smiths  
Interconnect 
£m

Corporate  
costs 
£m

312

35
–

35
(1)

34

–

–
(46)

(46)
(6)

(52)

Total 
£m

2,406

418
(46)

372
(46)

326

Year ended 31 July 2022

Depreciation – property, plant and equipment
Depreciation – right of use assets
Amortisation of capitalised development costs
Amortisation of software, patents and intellectual property
Amortisation of acquired intangibles
Share-based payment
Russia impairment charges and related closure costs
Transition services cost reimbursement

Depreciation – property, plant and equipment
Depreciation – right of use assets
Amortisation of capitalised development costs
Amortisation of software, patents and intellectual property
Amortisation of acquired intangibles
Share-based payment
Strategic restructuring costs

John Crane 
£m

Smiths 
 Detection 
£m

Flex-Tek 
£m

Smiths  
Interconnect 
£m

Corporate and 
non-headline 
£m

15
15
–
3
–
3
9
–

10
7
3
1
–
2
10
–

7
5
–
–
–
2
–
–

5
2
–
2
–
1
–
–

1
1
–
1
51
4
–
 (7)

Total 
£m

38
30
3
7
51
12
19
 (7)

Year ended 31 July 2021

John Crane 
£m

Smiths 
 Detection 
£m

Flex-Tek 
£m

Smiths  
Interconnect 
£m

Corporate and  
non-headline 
 £m

15
14
–
3
–
3
4

12
7
7
1
–
2
6

6
4
–
–
–
1
–

6
5
–
2
–
1
10

1
2
–
1
53
6
1

Total 
£m

40
32
7
7
53
13
21

The corporate and non-headline column comprises central information technology, human resources and headquarters costs and non-headline 
expenses (see note 3).

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

Segment assets and liabilities

Segment assets

Property, plant, equipment, right of use assets, development projects,  
other intangibles and investments
Inventory, trade and other receivables 

Segment assets 

167
429

596

127
524

651

84
244

328

54
167

221

399
13

412

John Crane 
£m

Smiths 
 Detection 
£m

Flex-Tek 
£m

Smiths  
Interconnect 
£m

Corporate and 
non-headline 
£m

John Crane 
£m

Smiths  
Detection 
£m

Flex-Tek 
£m

Smiths 
 Interconnect 
£m

Corporate and 
non-headline 
£m

Property, plant, equipment, right of use assets, development projects,  
other intangibles and investments
Inventory, trade and other receivables 

Segment assets 

152
356

508

117
417

534

75
160

235

44
127

171

18
10

28

Non-headline assets comprise receivables relating to non-headline items, acquisitions and disposals.

Segment liabilities

Divisional liabilities
Corporate and non-headline liabilities

Segment liabilities

Divisional liabilities
Corporate and non-headline liabilities

Segment liabilities

John Crane 
£m

Smiths 
 Detection 
£m

Flex-Tek 
£m

Smiths  
Interconnect 
£m

Corporate and 
non-headline  
£m

(155)
–

(155)

(347)
–

(347)

(91)
–

(91)

(85)
–

(85)

–
(385)

(385)

John Crane 
£m

Smiths  
Detection 
£m

Flex-Tek 
£m

Smiths 
 Interconnect 
£m

Corporate and 
non-headline  
£m

(137)
–

(137)

(276)
–

(276)

(66)
–

(66)

(61)
–

(61)

–
(336)

(336)

Non-headline liabilities comprise provisions and accruals relating to non-headline items, acquisitions and disposals.

Reconciliation of segment assets and liabilities to statutory assets and liabilities

117

31 July 2022

Total 
£m

831
1,377

2,208

31 July 2021

Total 
£m

406
1,070

1,476

31 July 2022

Total 
£m

(678)
(385)

(1,063)

31 July 2021

Total 
£m

(540)
(336)

(876)

Segment assets and liabilities
Goodwill and acquired intangibles
Derivatives 
Current and deferred tax
Retirement benefit assets and obligations
Cash and borrowings

Assets and liabilities held for sale

Statutory assets and liabilities

31 July 
2022 
£m

2,208 
1,501 
4 
145 
309 

1,056 
– 

5,223 

Assets

31 July 
2021 
£m

1,476
1,423
77
167
546

405
1,243

5,337

31 July 
2022 
£m

(1,063)
– 
(47)
(111)
(115)

(1,166)
– 

Liabilities

31 July 
2021 
£m

(876)
–
(3)
(122)
(128)
(1,502)

(283)

(2,502)

(2,914)

Segment capital expenditure
The capital expenditure on property, plant and equipment, capitalised development and other intangible assets for each division is:

Capital expenditure year ended 31 July 2022
Capital expenditure year ended 31 July 2021

John Crane 
£m

Smiths  
Detection 
£m

Flex-Tek 
£m

Smiths 
 Interconnect 
£m

Corporate and 
non-headline 
£m

24

19

23

23

11

9

12

9

1

2

Total 
£m

71

62

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

118

Segment capital employed
Capital employed is a non-statutory measure of invested resources. It comprises statutory net assets adjusted to add goodwill recognised 
directly in reserves in respect of subsidiaries acquired before 1 August 1998 of £478m (FY2021: £787m) and eliminate retirement benefit 
assets and obligations and litigation provisions relating to non-headline items, both net of related tax, and net debt. See note 29 for a 
reconciliation of net assets to capital employed. 

The 12-month rolling average capital employed by division, which Smiths uses to calculate divisional return on capital employed, is: 

Average divisional capital employed
Average corporate capital employed

Average total capital employed – continuing operations

Average divisional capital employed 

Average corporate capital employed

Average total capital employed – continuing operations

Analysis of revenue
The revenue for the main product and service lines for each division is: 

John Crane

Revenue year ended 31 July 2022
Revenue year ended 31 July 2021

Smiths Detection

Revenue year ended 31 July 2022
Revenue year ended 31 July 2021

Flex-Tek

Revenue year ended 31 July 2022
Revenue year ended 31 July 2021

Smiths Interconnect

Revenue year ended 31 July 2022
Revenue year ended 31 July 2021

John Crane 
£m

Smiths 
 Detection 
£m

970

1,019

Flex-Tek 
£m

520

Smiths  
Interconnect 
£m

400

John Crane 
£m

Smiths 
 Detection 
£m

937

1,018

Flex-Tek 
£m

449

Smiths 
 Interconnect 
£m

395

Original 
Equipment 
£m

Aftermarket 
£m

279

273

622

592

Aviation  
£m

Other security  
systems 
£m

467

546

188

175

Aerospace
£m

Industrials 
£m

116

99

531

409

31 July 2022

Total 
£m

2,909
31

2,940

31 July 2021

Total 
£m

2,799

31

2,830

Total 
£m

901

865

Total 
£m

655

721

Total 
£m

647

508

Components, 
connectors & 
subsystems 
£m

363
312

Aftermarket sales contributed £1,238m (FY2021: £1,198m) of Group revenue: John Crane aftermarket sales were £622m (FY2021: £592m); 
Smiths Detection aftermarket sales were £355m (FY2021: £331m); Flex-Tek aftermarket sales were £261m (FY2021: £270m); and Smiths 
Interconnect aftermarket sales were £nil (FY2021: £5m).

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

Divisional revenue is analysed by the Smiths Group key global markets as follows:

John Crane
Revenue year ended 31 July 2022
Revenue year ended 31 July 2021

Smiths Detection
Revenue year ended 31 July 2022
Revenue year ended 31 July 2021

Flex Tek
Revenue year ended 31 July 2022
Revenue year ended 31 July 2021

Smiths Interconnect
Revenue year ended 31 July 2022
Revenue year ended 31 July 2021

Total
Revenue year ended 31 July 2022
Revenue year ended 31 July 2021

The Group’s statutory revenue is analysed as follows:

Sale of goods recognised at a point in time
Sale of goods recognised over time

Services recognised over time

119

General 
Industrial 
£m

Safety & 
Security 
£m

Energy 
£m

Aerospace 
£m

Total 
£m

371

355

–

–

531

409

166

139

1,068

903

–

–

655

721

–

–

144

128

799

849

530

510

–

–

–

–

–

–

530

510

–

–

–

–

116

99

53

45

169

144

901

865

655

721

647

508

363

312

2,566

2,406

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

1,849
99
618

2,566

1,723
94

589
2,406

Analysis by geographical areas
The Group’s revenue by destination and non-current operating assets by location are shown below:

Americas

Europe

Asia-Pacific

Rest of the World

Intangible assets, right of use 
assets and property, plant and 
equipment

Revenue

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

1,423

1,244

480

421
242

522

390
250

31 July 2022 
£m

31 July 2021 
£m

1,324

498

76
39

1,195

512

70
41

2,566

2,406

1,937

1,818

Revenue by destination attributable to the United Kingdom was £75m (FY2021: £69m). Other revenue found to be significant included, the 
United States of America, totalling £1,206m (FY2021: £1,047m), China (excluding Hong Kong) £132m (FY2021: £123m) and Germany £123m 
(FY2021: £130m). Revenue by destination has been selected as the basis for attributing revenue to geographical areas as this was the 
geographic attribution of revenue used by management to review business performance.

Non-current assets located in the United Kingdom total £108m (FY2021: £110m). Significant non-current assets held in the United States of 
America £1,260m (FY2021: £1,138m) and Germany £340m (FY2021: £350m).

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS120

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

2 Operating costs
The Group's operating costs for continuing operations are analysed as follows:

Cost of sales – direct materials, labour, production and  
distribution overheads
Selling costs
Administrative expenses

Transition services cost reimbursement

Total

Year ended 31 July 2022

Year ended 31 July 2021

Headline 
£m

Non-headline 
(note 3) 
£m

1,605
200
351

(7)

2,149

–
–
300

–

300

Total 
£m

1,605
200
651

(7)

2,449

Headline 
£m

Non-headline 
(note 3) 
£m

1,491
188
355

–

2,034

–
–
46

–

46

Total 
£m

1,491
188
401

–

2,080

Following the sale of the Smiths Medical business, the Group has provided transition services to the Smiths Medical Group, which is 
disclosed above as transition services cost reimbursement.

Operating profit is stated after charging (crediting):

Research and development expense
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment
Depreciation of right of use assets
Amortisation of intangible assets
Strategic restructuring programme and write-downs

Russia impairment and related closure costs (see note 11)

Transition services cost reimbursement

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

80
38
30
61
–

19

(7)

76
40
32
67
21

–

–

Research and development (R&D) cash costs were £107m (FY2021: £94m) comprising £80m (FY2021: £76m) of R&D expensed to the income 
statement, £12m (FY2021: £8m) of capitalised costs and £15m (FY2021: £10m) of customer funded R&D.

Administrative expenses include £3m (FY2021: £1m) in respect of lease payments for short-term and low-value leases which were not 
included within right of use assets and lease liabilities.

Auditors' remuneration
The following fees were paid or are payable to the Company’s auditors, KPMG LLP and other firms in the KPMG network, for the year ended 
31 July 2022. 

Audit services

Fees payable to the Company’s auditors for the audit of the Company’s annual financial statements
Fees payable to the Company’s auditors and its associates for other services:
– the audit of the Company’s subsidiaries 

All other services

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

2.8

4.6

7.4
0.8

2.3

4.2

6.5
0.9

Other services comprise audit-related assurance services £0.5m (FY2021: £0.4m) and fees for reporting accountant services in connection 
with a class 1 disposal £0.3m (FY2021: £0.5m).  Audit-related assurance services include the review of the Interim Report. Total fees for non 
audit services comprise 11% (FY2021: 13%) of audit fees. 

In the current year, the Group has additionally agreed £0.5m of additional fees with the Group auditors relating to the audit of the prior year 
financial statements.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS121

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

3 Non-statutory profit measures

Headline profit measures
The Group has identified and defined a ‘headline’ measure of performance which is not impacted by material non-recurring items or items 
considered non-operational/trading in nature. This non-GAAP measure of profit is not intended to be a substitute for any IFRS measures of 
performance, but is a key measure used by management to understand and manage performance. See the disclosures on presentation of 
results in accounting policies for an explanation of the adjustments. The items excluded from 'headline' are referred to as ‘non-headline’ items.

Non-headline operating profit items

i. CONTINUING OPERATIONS
The non-headline items included in statutory operating profit for continuing operations were as follows:

Post-acquisition integration costs and fair value adjustment unwind
Unwind of acquisition balance sheet fair value uplift
Integration programme costs
Acquisition and disposal related transaction costs and provision releases
Business acquisition/disposal costs
Legacy pension scheme arrangements
Past service costs for benefit equalisation and improvements
Retirement benefit scheme settlement loss
Non-headline litigation provision movements
Movement in provision held against Titeflex Corporation subrogation claims
Provision for John Crane, Inc. asbestos litigation
Cost recovery for John Crane, Inc. asbestos litigation
Other items

Russia impairment charges and related closure costs
Amortisation of acquired intangible assets 

Non-headline items in operating profit – continuing operations

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

Notes

(2)
–

(5)

(43)
(171)

(2)
(7)
–

(19)
(51)

(300)

(1)
(1)

(1)

(6)
–

13
(6)
9

–
(53)

(46)

8

8

23

23

11

10

Post-acquisition integration costs and fair value adjustment unwind
The impact of unwinding the acquisition balance sheet fair value adjustments required by IFRS 3 'Business combinations' was recognised as 
non-headline as the charge did not relate to trading activity. The £2m (FY2021: £1m) charge was due to the unwind of fair value uplifts on the 
acquisition of Royal Metal Products.

The £1m of integration programme costs in FY2021 principally related to defined projects for the integration of United Flexible into the 
existing Flex-Tek business. Integration programme costs included the direct costs of organisational change, site rationalisation and entity 
closure costs. The United Flexible integration programme concluded in the current year. Integration costs were recognised as non-headline 
items because they were considered material and bear no relation to the ongoing performance of the acquired businesses.

Acquisition and disposal related transaction costs and provision releases
The £5m of business acquisition/disposal costs (FY2021: £1m) principally relate to a provision for potential litigation expenses relating to an 
acquired business that were unknown at the time of the acquisition. These costs are recognised as non-headline items because they entirely 
relate to an acquisition transaction and are considered to be non-trading in nature. 

Legacy pension scheme arrangements

The current year past service costs of £43m (FY2021: £6m) comprises the following:

 – £19m of costs (FY2021: £6m) that were recognised in respect of the historic equalisation of retirement benefits for men and women (see 

note 8 for further details); and 

 – £24m of costs  (FY2021: £nil) that were recognised following the TI Group Pension Scheme (TIGPS) executing an insurance buy-in policy. 
This reflects the expectation that the TIGPS trustee will use any surplus, remaining after the costs of buying-out and winding-up the 
scheme have been met, to improve member benefits (see note 8 for further details). 

These past service costs  are reported as non-headline as they are non-recurring and relate to legacy pension liabilities.  

A £171m retirement benefit scheme settlement loss has been recognised in the current year (FY2021: £nil) following TIGPS executing an 
insurance buy-in policy for its remaining uninsured liabilities (see note 8 for further details). This item is reported as non-headline as it is 
non-recurring and relates to legacy pension liabilities.

Non-headline litigation provision movements
The following litigation costs and recoveries have been treated as non-headline items because the provisions were treated as non-headline 
when originally recognised and the subrogation claims and litigation relate to products that the Group no longer sells in these markets:
 – The £2m charge (FY2021: £13m credit) recognised by Titeflex Corporation is principally in respect of an increase in the estimated cost of 

future claims. See note 23 for further details; and

 – The £7m charge (FY2021: £6m charge) recognised for John Crane, Inc. asbestos litigation provision was principally due to an increased 

provision for adverse judgements and legal defence costs. The costs recovered via insurer settlements in FY2021 were £9m. See note 23 
for further details.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

122

Other items
Following the decision in March 2022 to suspend sales into Russia the Group has recognised £19m (FY2021: £nil) of Russia impairment 
charges and related closure costs (see note 11 for further details). These expenses are recognised as non-headline items as they are both 
non-recurring and material in size.

Acquired intangible asset amortisation costs of £51m (FY2021: £53m) were recognised in the current year. This was considered to be a non-
headline item on the basis that these charges resulted from acquisition accounting and were non-operational in nature. 

Non-headline finance costs items
The non-headline items included in finance costs for continuing operations were as follows:

Unwind of discount on provisions
Other finance income – retirement benefits
Fair value gain on investment in early stage business
Foreign exchange gain (loss) on intercompany loan with discontinued operations

Non-headline items in finance costs – continuing operations

Continuing operations – non-headline loss before taxation

Notes

23

8

14

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

(3)
7
1
22

27

(273)

(2)
6
–
(50)

(46)

(92)

The financing elements of non-headline legacy liabilities, including the £3m (FY2021: £2m) unwind of discount on provisions, were excluded 
from headline finance costs because these provisions were originally recognised as non-headline and this treatment has been maintained 
for ongoing costs and credits. 

Other finance income comprises £7m (FY2021: £6m) of financing credits relating to retirement benefits. These were excluded from headline 
finance costs because the ongoing costs and credits are a legacy of previous employee pension arrangements. 

Foreign exchange gains or losses on intercompany financing between Smiths Medical and the continuing Group were recognised on the face 
of the income statement as a non-headline item due to the classification of the Smiths Medical division as a discontinued operation. The  
£22m foreign exchange gain in continuing operations (FY2021: £50m loss) matches the foreign exchange loss in discontinued operations. 
This was excluded from headline net finance costs as these fair value movements were non-operational in nature and were purely a 
consequence of the presentational requirements for discontinued operations.

Non-headline taxation items
The non-headline items included in taxation for continuing operations were as follows:

Tax credit on non-headline loss
(Increase)/decrease in unrecognised UK deferred tax asset

Non-headline items in taxation – continuing operations

Continuing operations – non-headline loss for the year

Notes

6

6

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

19
(5)

14

(259)

9
4

13

(79)

Movement in unrecognised UK deferred tax asset
These movements are reported as non-headline because the prior year charge was reported as non-headline. In FY2019 £36m of deferred 
tax was derecognised following the decision to separate Smiths Medical which reduces the Group's profitability in the UK. This year, 
following sale of Medical there is an additional non-headline charge for UK losses.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

ii. DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
The non-headline items for discontinued operations were as follows:

Non-headline operating profit items
Medfusion documentation remediation costs 
Impairment of investment in Ivenix, Inc convertible debt
Medical separation costs
Impairment of capitalised development costs and related assets 
Non-headline finance costs items

Foreign exchange (loss)/gain on intercompany loan with parent

Gain on sale of discontinued operation

Gain on the sale of Smiths Medical to ICU Medical, Inc.

Non-headline taxation items

Tax on non-headline loss

Non-headline items in profit from discontinued operations

Profit for the year – non-headline items for continuing and discontinued operations

123

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

Notes

(33)
(14)
–
–

(22)

1,036

6

973

714

27

27

–
–
(18)
(61)

50

–

23

(6)

(85)

In the current year Smiths Medical recognised a provision of £33m against the expected costs of the remediation actions required to address 
each of the observations and discussion items contained in the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ‘for-cause’ audit findings on the 
Medfusion product range.

In the current period a decision was taken by Smiths Medical to exit their commercial agreement with Ivenix, Inc. These circumstances 
have resulted in a change in strategy and have triggered an indicator of impairment to the carrying value of the Smiths Medical investment 
in Ivenix, Inc. As this change in circumstances indicates that it is not currently probable that the investment will realise economic benefits, 
management have impaired the entire £14m value of Smiths Medical’s Ivenix, Inc. investment.

In the prior year the £18m of Medical separation costs represented incremental costs incurred by the Group to separate Smiths Medical. 
This cost has been reported as non-headline as the full year effect of the transaction on the Group's financial statements is both material 
and non-recurring. In the current year separation and transaction costs incurred on the sale of the Smiths Medical business to ICU Medical, 
Inc have been included within the ‘Gain on sale of discontinued operation’ calculation (see note 27). 

The £22m foreign exchange loss on intercompany loan with parent (FY2021: £50m gain) directly offsets the foreign exchange gain in 
continuing operations. This is excluded from headline net finance costs as these fair value movements are non-operational in nature and are 
purely a consequence of the presentational requirements for discontinued operations.

4 Net finance costs

Interest receivable

Interest payable:
– bank loans and overdrafts, including associated fees 
– other loans 
– interest on leases 

Interest payable

Headline net finance costs

Other financing gains/(losses):
– valuation movements on fair value hedged debt
– valuation movements on fair value derivatives
– foreign exchange and ineffectiveness on net investment hedges
– retranslation of foreign currency bank balances 
– other items including counterparty credit risk adjustments and non-hedge accounted derivatives

Other financing gains/(losses)

Non-headline finance cost items:
Foreign exchange gain on intercompany loan with discontinued operations
Unwind of discount on provisions
Fair value gain on investment in early stage business

Net interest income on retirement benefit obligations

Non-headline finance cost items

Net finance costs

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

Notes

14

(12)
(40)
(3)

(55)

(41)

(32)
33
(2)
(1)
2

–

22
(3)
1

7

27

(14)

9

(7)
(39)
(3)

(49)

(40)

22
(25)
3
(3)
3

–

(50)
(2)
–

6

(46)

(86)

3

3

14

8

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS 

124

5 Earnings per share
Basic earnings per share are calculated by dividing the profit for the year attributable to equity shareholders of the Company by the average 
number of ordinary shares in issue during the year.

Profit attributable to equity shareholders for the year:
– continuing
– discontinued

Total

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

11
1,022

1,033

156
128

284

Average number of shares in issue during the year (note 24)

386,678,211

396,350,586 

Statutory earnings per share total – basic

Statutory earnings per share total – diluted

Statutory earnings per share continuing operations – basic

Statutory earnings per share continuing operations – diluted

267.1p
266.0p

2.8p
2.8p

71.7p
71.3p

39.4p
39.1p

Diluted earnings per share are calculated by dividing the profit attributable to ordinary shareholders by 388,349,758 (FY2021: 398,576,502) 
ordinary shares, being the average number of ordinary shares in issue during the year adjusted by the dilutive effect of employee share 
schemes. No options (FY2021: nil) were excluded from this calculation because their effect was anti-dilutive.

A reconciliation of statutory and headline earnings per share is as follows:

Total profit attributable to equity shareholders of the Parent Company
Exclude: Non-headline items (note 3)

Headline earnings per share

Profit from continuing operations attributable to equity shareholders of 
the Parent Company
Exclude: Non-headline items (note 3)

Headline earnings per share – continuing operations

Year ended 31 July 2022

Basic EPS  
(p)

Diluted EPS 
(p)

267.1

266.0

82.5

82.1

2.8

2.8

69.8

69.5

£m

1,033
(714)

319

11
259

270

Year ended 31 July 2021

Basic EPS  
(p)

Diluted EPS 
(p)

71.7

71.3

93.1

39.4

59.3

92.6

39.1

59.0

£m

284
85

369

156
79

235

6 Taxation
This note only provides information about corporate income taxes under IFRS. Smiths companies operate in over 50 countries across 
the world. They pay and collect many different taxes in addition to corporate income taxes including: payroll taxes; value added and sales 
taxes; property taxes; product-specific taxes; and environmental taxes. The costs associated with these other taxes are included in profit 
before tax. 

The taxation charge in the consolidated income statement for the year comprises:

Continuing operations
– current income tax charge
– current tax adjustments in respect of prior periods

Current taxation
Deferred taxation

Total taxation expense – continuing operations

Analysed as:
Headline taxation expense
Non-headline taxation credit

Total taxation expense in the consolidated income statement

Tax on items charged/(credited) to equity
Deferred tax:
– retirement benefit schemes
– foreign exchange
– share-based payment

The £nil (FY2021: £6m) charge to equity for retirement benefits related to UK retirement schemes. 

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

68
5

73
17

90

104
(14)

90

71
7

78
5

83

96
(13)

83

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

–
–
(1)

(1)

6
(5)
(1)

–

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

Current taxation liabilities

At 31 July 2020

Foreign exchange gain
Charge to income statement
Tax paid

At 31 July 2021

Current tax receivable
Current tax payable within one year

Corporation tax payable after more than one year

At 31 July 2021

Foreign exchange gain

Charge to income statement

Tax paid

At 31 July 2022

Current tax receivable
Current tax payable within one year

Corporation tax payable after more than one year

At 31 July 2022

125

Current tax 
£m

(38)

1
(78)
96

(19)

75
(89)

(5)

(19)

(4)

(73)

79

(17)

50

(64)
(3)

(17)

Taxation liabilities included provisions of £38m (FY2021: £34m), the majority of which related to the risk of challenge to the geographic 
allocation of profits by tax authorities. 

In addition to the risks provided for, the Group faces a variety of other tax risks, which result from operating in a complex global environment, 
including the ongoing reform of both international and domestic tax rules, new and ongoing tax audits in the Group’s larger markets and the 
challenge to fulfil ongoing tax compliance filing and transfer pricing obligations given the scale and diversity of the Group’s global operations.

The Group anticipates that a number of tax audits are likely to conclude in the next 12 to 24 months. Due to the uncertainty associated with 
such tax items, it is possible that the conclusion of open tax matters may result in a final outcome that varies significantly from the amounts 
noted above.

Reconciliation of the tax charge 
The headline tax charge for the year of £104m (FY2021: £96m) represented an effective rate of 27.6% (FY2021: 28.9%). The headline effective 
tax rate for the total Group including discontinued operations was 27.2% (FY2021: 27.1%). The tax charge on the profit for the year for 
continuing operations was different from the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 19% (FY2021: 19.0%). The difference is reconciled 
as follows:

Profit before taxation 

Notional taxation expense at UK corporate rate of 19.0% (FY2021: 19.0%)
Different tax rates on non-UK profits and losses
Non-deductible expenses and other charges
Tax credits and non-taxable income
Non-headline UK deferred tax asset recognition adjustment
Other adjustments to unrecognised deferred tax
Non-tax relievable loss on UK pensions schemes
Tax on Smiths Medical consolidation adjustments
Prior year true-up

Total taxation expense in the consolidated income statement

Comprising:
Taxation on headline profit 

 Non-headline taxation items:
 – Tax on non-headline loss

 – UK deferred tax asset recognition adjustment
Taxation on non-headline items

Total taxation expense in the consolidated income statement

The head office of Smiths Group is domiciled in the UK; so the tax charge has been reconciled to UK tax rates.

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

103

240

20
13
11
(6)
5
10
41
2
(6)

90

104

(19)
5

(14)

90

46
16
30
(8)
(4)
(4)
–
8
(1)

83

96

(9)

(4)
(13)

83

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

Deferred taxation assets/(liabilities)

At 31 July 2020

Reallocations
Charge to income statement – continuing operations
Credit to equity
Foreign exchange rate movements

At 31 July 2021

Deferred tax assets
Deferred tax liabilities

At 31 July 2021

Reallocations
Charge to income statement – continuing operations
Credit to equity
Foreign exchange rate movements

At 31 July 2022

Deferred tax assets
Deferred tax liabilities

At 31 July 2022

126

 Total 
£m

75

–
(5)
(1)
(5)

64

92
(28)

64

–
(17)
(1)
5

51

95
(44)

51

Property, plant,  
equipment and 
intangible  
assets 
£m

Employment 
benefits 
£m

Losses  
carried  
forward 
£m

Provisions 
£m

Other 
£m

(74)

11
4
–
3

(56)

2
(58)

(56)

(15)
4
–
(9)

(76)

(1)
(75)

(76)

(66)

(1)
(31)
(6)
(1)

(105)

(113)
8

(105)

1
50
3
–

(51)

(56)
5

(51)

128

(14)
27
5
(2)

144

126
18

144

9
(54)
–
4

103

76
27

103

86

2
(5)
–
(5)

78

62
16

78

1
(10)
–
10

79

65
14

79

1

2
–
–
–

3

15
(12)

3

4
(7)
(4)
–

(4)

11
(15)

(4)

Reallocations in FY2022 include £10m where attributes used to shelter PDCF assessments have been reallocated from losses to capital 
allowances, following the conclusion of the Group's PDCF audit with UK HMRC covering FY2015 to FY2020.

Of the amounts included within 'Other' in the table above as at 31 July 2022, liabilities relating to tax on unremitted earnings were £19m  
(FY2021: £14m). The aggregate amount of temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries for which deferred tax liabilities 
have not been recognised was immaterial. 

The deferred tax asset relating to losses has been recognised on the basis of strong evidence of future taxable profits against which the 
unutilised tax losses can be relieved or because it is probable that they will be recovered against the reversal of deferred tax liabilities. 
Deferred tax relating to provisions includes £57m (FY2021: £54m) relating to John Crane Inc. litigation provision, and £12m (FY2021: £11m) 
relating to Titeflex Corporation litigation provision. See note 23 for additional information on provisions. 

Unrecognised deferred tax
The Group has unrecognised deferred tax relating to losses amounting to £335m (FY2021: £107m). 

The expiry date of operating losses carried forward is dependent upon the law of the various territories in which the losses arise. A summary 
of expiry dates for the unrecognised deferred tax on losses is set out below:

Restricted losses – Asia

Unrestricted losses – operating losses

Total unrecognised deferred tax on losses

Expiry of  
losses

n/a
No expiry

2022 
£m

–
335

335

Expiry of  
losses

2022-2027

No expiry

2021 
£m

30

77

107

Unrecognised deferred tax relating to losses has increased by £228m (FY2021: increased by £13m). Changes to unrecognised losses include 
an increase of £226m, mainly related to UK deferred tax on losses that were being recognised to offset the deferred tax liability related to the 
TI Pension surplus, now written off following the bulk annuity buy-in with Rothesay Life plc, other increases of £39m and a reduction of £37m 
related to the sale of Smiths Medical.

Sale of Smiths Medical
The sale of 100% of the share capital of the UK Smiths Medical holding company completed on the 6 January 2022. The profit on sale was 
exempt from tax under the Substantial Shareholding Exemption.

Developments in the Group tax position 
In December 2021, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development ('OECD') published rules relating to global minimum 
taxation – the so-called Pillar 2 rules, scheduled to apply from 2023, regarding the future taxation of large multinationals such as Smiths. 
The Group will continue to monitor the development and future implementation of these rules. However, at this time and as currently drafted, 
they are not expected to have a material impact on the Group.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

7 Employees

Staff costs during the period

Wages and salaries
Social security
Share-based payment (note 9)
Pension costs (including defined contribution schemes) (note 8)

127

Year ended 31 July 2022

Year ended 31 July 2021

Continuing 
operations 
£m

Discontinued 
operations 
£m

700
81
13
29

823

91
9
2
5

107

Total 
£m

791
90
15
34

930

Continuing 
operations 
£m

Discontinued 
operations 
£m

627
85
13
26

751

234
22
1
11

268

Total 
£m

861
107
14
37

1,019

The average number of persons employed, rounded to the nearest 50 employees, was:

John Crane
Smiths Detection
Flex-Tek
Smiths Interconnect
Corporate (including central/shared IT services)

Continuing operations

Discontinued operations – Smiths Medical (in period to 6 January 2022)
Total

Year ended 
 31 July 2022

Year ended 
 31 July 2021

6,050
3,100
3,300
2,500
300

15,250

6,700

21,950

5,950
3,000
3,000
2,300
300

14,550

7,500
22,050

Key management
The key management of the Group comprises Smiths Group plc Board Directors and Executive Committee members. Their aggregate 
compensation is shown below. Details of Directors’ remuneration are contained in the report of the Remuneration & People Committee on  
pages 75 to 88.

Key management compensation
Salaries and short-term employee benefits
Cost of retirement benefits
Cost of share-based incentive plans

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

10.3
0.7
4.7

12.8
0.9
3.9

No member of key management had any material interest during the period in a contract of significance (other than a service contract 
or a qualifying third-party indemnity provision) with the Company or any of its subsidiaries. 

Options and awards held at the end of the period by key management in respect of the Company’s share-based incentive plans were:

SEP
LTIP
Restricted stock
SAYE

Year ended 31 July 2022

Year ended 31 July 2021

Number of 
instruments 
’000

Weighted 
average  
exercise 
 price

Number of 
instruments 
’000

Weighted 
average 
 exercise 
 price

–
1,411
8
16

£11.43

169
1,645
82
11

£10.11

Related party transactions
The only related party transactions in FY2022 were key management compensation (FY2021: key management compensation). 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

128

8 Retirement benefits
Smiths provides retirement benefits to employees in a number of countries. This includes defined benefit and defined contribution plans and, 
mainly in the United Kingdom (UK) and United States of America (US), post-retirement healthcare. 

Defined contribution plans
The Group operates defined contribution plans across many countries. In the UK a defined contribution plan has been offered since the 
closure of the UK defined benefit pension plans. In the US a 401(k) defined contribution plan operates. The total expense recognised in the 
consolidated income statement in respect of all these plans was £34m (FY2021: £36m).

Defined benefit and post-retirement healthcare plans
The principal defined benefit pension plans are in the UK and in the US and these have been closed so that no future benefits are accrued. 

For all schemes, pension costs are assessed in accordance with the advice of independent, professionally qualified actuaries. 
These valuations have been updated by independent qualified actuaries in order to assess the liabilities of the schemes as at 31 July 2022. 
Contributions to the schemes are made on the advice of the actuaries, in accordance with local funding requirements.

The changes in the present value of the net pension asset in the period were: 

At beginning of period
Foreign exchange rate movements
Current service cost
Scheme administration costs
Past service cost, curtailments, settlements – continuing operations
Settlements – discontinued operations
Finance income – retirement benefits
Contributions by employer
Actuarial gain

Retirement benefit obligations disposed of with Smiths Medical (note 27)

Unrecognised assets due to surplus restriction

Net retirement benefit asset

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

413
-
(2)
(4)
(214)
(3)
7
9
3

5

(20)

194

372
5
(2)
(5)
(6)
–
6
30
13

–

–

413

The £413m net retirement benefit asset for FY2021 included £5m of pension obligations disclosed within liabilities held for sale.

UK pension schemes
Smiths funded UK pension schemes are subject to a statutory funding objective, as set out in UK pension legislation. Scheme trustees need 
to obtain regular actuarial valuations to assess the scheme against this funding objective. The trustees and sponsoring companies need to 
agree funding plans to improve the position of a scheme when it is below the acceptable funding level. 

The UK Pensions Regulator has extensive powers to protect the benefits of members, promote good administration and reduce the risk of 
situations arising which may require compensation to be paid from the Pension Protection Fund. These include imposing a schedule of 
contributions or the calculation of the technical provisions, where a trustee and company fail to agree appropriate calculations. 

Smiths Industries Pension Scheme ('SIPS')
This scheme was closed to future accrual effective 1 November 2009. SIPS provides index-linked (to applicable caps) pension benefits 
based on final earnings at date of closure. SIPS is governed by a corporate trustee (S.I. Pension Trustees Limited, a wholly owned 
subsidiary of Smiths Group plc). The board of trustee directors currently comprises four Company-nominated trustees and four member-
nominated trustees, with an independent chairman selected by Smiths Group plc. Trustee directors are responsible for the management, 
administration, funding and investment strategy of the scheme.

The most recent actuarial valuation of this scheme has been performed using the Projected Unit Method as at 31 March 2020. The valuation 
showed a surplus of £34m on the Technical Provisions funding basis at the valuation date and the funding position has improved since then. 
As part of the valuation agreement, no contributions are currently being paid to SIPS and the Group's current expectation is that these 
contributions will not recommence (although there are circumstances relating to the Scheme’s funding level in which contributions could be 
due to SIPS).

The duration of SIPS liabilities is around 20 years (FY2021: 23 years) for active deferred members, 20 years (FY2021: 22 years) for deferred 
members and 11 years (FY2021: 12 years) for pensioners and dependants. 

Under the governing documentation of SIPS, any future surplus would be returnable to Smiths Group plc by refund, assuming gradual 
settlement of the liabilities over the lifetime of the scheme.

In SIPS, as part of ongoing data cleansing work being undertaken to prepare the scheme for a potential full buy-out in the future, it has 
been discovered that the method used in the early 1990s to equalise retirement ages between men and women in two of its smaller benefits 
sections was incorrect. An additional liability of £19m has been recognised as a past service cost to reflect the correction of this issue. 
A wider review is being undertaken to determine if equalisation was undertaken correctly in other sections of the Scheme. Should any issues 
arise from this review, any additional liability is expected to be accounted for at the point the legal investigations are completed and there is 
clarity on the legally effective dates that equalisation of retirement ages was implemented in respective sections.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

129

TI Group Pension Scheme ('TIGPS')
This scheme was closed to future accrual effective 1 November 2009. TIGPS provides index-linked (to applicable caps) pension benefits based on 
final earnings at the date of closure. TIGPS is governed by a corporate trustee (TI Pension Trustee Limited, an independent company). The board 
of trustee directors comprises four Company-nominated trustees and four member-nominated trustees, with an independent trustee director 
selected by the trustee. The trustee is responsible for the management, administration, funding and investment strategy of the scheme.

In June 2022 the TIGPS trustee completed a deal to secure its remaining uninsured pension liabilities, by way of a bulk annuity buy-in with 
Rothesay Life plc. This means all of the scheme’s liabilities are insured via seven buy-in policies. The final buy-in has been secured with an 
intention to fully buy-out the Scheme as soon as reasonably practical and within a period of four years. Consequently, the income statement 
recognises a settlement loss of £171m in relation to the buy-in. In terms agreed between the Group and the TIGPS trustee prior to the transaction, 
when TIGPS converts all of its buy-in policies to buy-out policies and subsequently winds-up, the trustee is expected to use any surplus remaining, 
after the costs of buying-out and winding-up the scheme have been met, to improve member benefits. A past service cost of £24m has been 
recognised for this in the income statement. The Group has no expectation of receiving a refund from the scheme and has placed an economic 
benefit value of zero on the TIGPS surplus from 10 June 2022.

As TIGPS currently retains the legal obligation to pay all scheme benefits, TIGPS liabilities remain part of the retirement benefit obligations on the 
balance sheet alongside the corresponding buy-in assets.  These liabilities and assets will be de-recognised at the point the buy-in policies are 
converted to buy-outs and the legal obligation for payment of benefits is transferred to the relevant insurers.

The most recent actuarial valuation of this scheme has been performed using the Projected Unit Method as at 5 April 2020. The valuation showed 
a surplus of £22m on the Technical Provisions funding basis at the valuation date and the funding position has improved since then. Given TIGPS’s 
circumstances, the Group's current expectation is that no further contributions to TIGPS will be required.

The duration of the TIGPS liabilities is around 21 years (FY2021: 23 years) for active deferred members, 19 years (FY2021: 21 years) for deferred 
members and 10 years (FY2021: 11 years) for pensioners and dependants.

US pension plans
The valuations of the principal US pension and post-retirement healthcare plans were performed using census data at 1 January 2022.

The pension plans were closed with effect from 30 April 2009 and benefits were calculated as at that date and are not revalued. Governance of 
the US pension plans is overseen by a Settlor Committee appointed by Smiths Group Services Corp, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Group.

The duration of the liabilities for the largest US plan is around 16 years (FY2021: 18 years) for active deferred members, 15 years (FY2021: 18 
years) for deferred members and 10 years (FY2021: 12 years) for pensioners and dependants.

Risk management
In respect of uninsured liabilities, the pensions schemes are exposed to risks that: 
 – investment returns are below expectations, leaving the schemes with insufficient assets in future to pay all their pension obligations; 
 – members and dependants live longer than expected, increasing the value of the pensions which the schemes have to pay; 
 – inflation rates are higher than expected, causing amounts payable under index-linked pensions to be higher than expected; and 
 – increased contributions are required to meet funding targets if lower interest rates increase the current value of liabilities. 

These risks are managed separately for each pension scheme. However, the Group has adopted a common approach of closing defined 
benefit schemes to cap members’ entitlements and of supporting trustees in adopting investment strategies which aim to hedge the value of 
assets against changes in the value of liabilities caused by changes in interest and inflation rates. 

Across SIPS and TIGPS, approximately 60% of all liabilities are now de-risked through 11 bulk annuities.

TIGPS
TIGPS has covered roughly 100% of liabilities with matching annuities, eliminating investment return, longevity, inflation and funding risks in 
respect of those liabilities.

SIPS
SIPS has covered roughly 30% of liabilities with matching annuities, eliminating investment return, longevity, inflation and funding risks in 
respect of those liabilities. It has also adopted a Liability Driven Investment (LDI) strategy to hedge interest and inflation risks of the scheme’s 
uninsured liabilities by investment in gilts together with the use of gilt repurchase arrangements, total return swaps, inflation swaps and 
interest rate swaps. The strategy also takes into account the scheme’s corporate bond investments. 

The critical estimates and principal assumptions used in updating the valuations are set out below:

Rate of increase in salaries
Rate of increase for active deferred members
Rate of increase in pensions in payment
Rate of increase in deferred pensions
Discount rate
Inflation rate
Healthcare cost increases

2022 
UK

n/a
4.0%
3.4%
3.4%
3.5%
3.4%
4.4%

2022 
US

n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
4.5%
n/a
n/a

2022 
Other

2.2%
n/a
1.2%
n/a
1.1%
1.3%
n/a

2021 
UK

n/a
4.2%
3.3%
3.3%
1.7%
3.3%
4.4%

2021 
US

n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
2.7%
n/a
n/a

2021 
Other

2.5%
n/a
1.5%
n/a
0.7%
1.5%
n/a

The assumptions used in calculating the costs and obligations of the Group’s defined benefit pension plans are set by the Group after 
consultation with independent professionally qualified actuaries. The assumptions used are estimates chosen from a range of possible 
actuarial assumptions which, due to the timescale covered, may not necessarily occur in practice. For countries outside the UK and USA, 
assumptions are disclosed as a weighted average.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

130

Inflation rate assumptions
The RPI inflation assumption of 3.4% has been derived using the Aon UK Government Gilt Prices Only Curve with an Inflation Risk Premium 
(IRP) of 0.2% p.a., whereas in previous years the Aon UK Government RPI Curve was used. It is estimated that the impact of this change in 
RPI methodology is to increase the RPI assumption by 0.1% at 31 July 2022 and this is expected to increase the balance sheet liabilities, for 
both SIPS and TIGPS, by 1.0% of DBO at 31 July 2022. 

The Government's response to its consultation on RPI reform was published on 25 November 2020, and strongly implied that RPI will 
become aligned with CPI-H from 2030.  No specific allowance (beyond anything already priced into markets) has been factored into the RPI 
assumptions for potential changes. The assumption for the long-term gap between RPI and CPI is 0.6% p.a. (FY2021:0.6%) reflecting the 
Group’s view on the market pricing of this gap over the lifetime of the UK schemes’ liabilities, i.e. 1.0% p.a. (FY2021: 1.0%) pre-2030 and 0.2% 
p.a. post-2030 (FY2021:0.1%).

Discount rate assumptions
The UK schemes use a discount rate based on the annualised yield on the Aon GBP Select AA Curve, using the expected cash-flows from a 
notional scheme with obligations of the same duration as that of the UK schemes. The US Plan uses a discount rate based on the annualised 
yield derived from Willis Towers Watson’s RATE:Link (10th – 90th) model using the Plan’s expected cash-flows.

Mortality assumptions
The mortality assumptions used in the principal UK schemes are based on the 'SAPS S3' birth year tables with relevant scaling factors 
based on the recent experience of the schemes. The assumption allows for future improvements in life expectancy in line with the 2021 CMI 
projections, with a smoothing factor of 7.0 and 'A' parameter of 0.5%/0.25% (SIPS/TIGPS) and blended to a long-term rate of 1.25%.

The mortality assumptions used in the principal US schemes are based on generational mortality using Pri-2012 sex-distinct, employee/ 
non-disabled annuitant table, with a 2012 base year, projected forward generationally with the MP-2021 mortality scale. No explicit 
adjustment has been made to mortality assumptions in respect of COVID-19.

Expected further years of life

Member who retires next year at age 65 
Member, currently 45, when they retire  
in 20 years’ time

Male 
31 July 2022

Female 
31 July 2022

Male 
31 July 2021

Female 
31 July 2021

Male 
31 July 2022

Female 
31 July 2022

Male 
31 July 2021

Female 
31 July 2021

22

23

24

25

22

23

24

25

21

22

22

24

20

22

22

24

UK schemes

US schemes

Sensitivity 
Sensitivities in respect of the key assumptions used to measure the principal pension schemes as at 31 July 2022 are set out below. 
These sensitivities show the hypothetical impact of a change in each of the listed assumptions in isolation, with the exception of the sensitivity 
to inflation which incorporates the impact of certain correlating assumptions. In practice, such assumptions rarely change in isolation.

Rate of mortality – 1 year increase in life expectancy
Rate of mortality – 1 year decrease in life expectancy
Rate of inflation – 0.25% increase
Discount rate – 0.25% increase
Market value of scheme assets – 2.5% increase

Profit before 
tax 
 for year 
ended 
 31 July 2022 
£m

Increase/ 
(decrease) in 
scheme  
assets 
 31 July 2022 
£m 

(Increase)/ 
decrease in 
scheme  
liabilities 
 31 July 2022 
£m

Profit before 
tax 
 for year ended 
 31 July 2021 
£m

Increase/ 
(decrease) in 
scheme  
assets 
 31 July 2021 
£m 

(Increase)/ 
decrease in 
scheme  
liabilities 
 31 July 2021 
£m

(2) 
2 
(1) 
2 
1 

84 
(84) 
34 
(49) 
40 

(135) 
136 
(69) 
97 
–

(2)
2
(1)
3
1

99
(97)
30
(38)
73

(209)
206
(98)
146
–

The effect on profit before tax reflects the impact of current service cost and net interest cost. The value of the scheme assets is affected 
by changes in mortality rates, inflation and discounting because they affect the carrying value of the insurance assets.

Asset valuation 
The pension schemes hold assets in a variety of pooled funds, in which the underlying assets typically are invested in credit and cash assets. 
These funds are valued. The price of the funds is set by administrators/custodians employed by the investment managers and based on the 
value of the underlying assets held in the funds. Details of pricing methodology are set out within internal control reports provided for each 
fund. Prices are updated daily, weekly or monthly depending upon the frequency of the fund’s dealing.

Bonds are valued using observable broker quotes. Gilt repurchase obligations are valued by the relevant manager, which derives the value 
using an industry recognised model with observable inputs.

Property is valued by specialists applying recognised property valuation methods incorporating current market data on rental yields and 
transaction prices.

Total return, interest and inflation swaps and forward FX contracts are bilateral agreements between counterparties and do not have 
observable market prices. These derivative contracts are valued using observable inputs.

Insured liabilities comprise annuity policies broadly matching the scheme obligation to identified groups of members. These assets are 
valued by an external qualified actuary at the actuarial valuation of the corresponding liability, reflecting this matching relationship.

The insurance policies are treated as qualifying insurance policies as none of the insurers are related parties of Smiths Group, and the 
proceeds of the policies can only be used to pay or fund employee benefits for the respective schemes, are not available to Smiths Group’s 
creditors and cannot be paid to Smiths Group.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

Retirement benefit plan assets

Cash and cash equivalents
Pooled funds:
– Pooled equity
– Pooled Diversified Growth
– Pooled credit
Corporate bonds
Government bonds/LDI
Insured liabilities
Property
Other

Total market value

131

31 July 2022 – £m

31 July 2021 – £m

UK  
schemes

US  
schemes

Other  
countries

90

–
–
379
412
498
1,649
39
–

3,067

1

–
–
–
167
57
–
–
–

225

1

3
15
–
–
3
–
–
–

22

Total

92

3
15
379
579
558
1,649
39
–

3,314

UK  
schemes

US  
schemes

Other  
countries

71

–
–
420
791
1,298
1,462
62
–

4,104

1

–
–
–
192
79
–
–
–

272

–

3
19
–
–
3
–
–
5

30

Total

72

3
19
420
983
1,380
1,462
62
5

4,406

The assets are unquoted. Government bonds/LDI portfolios contain £960m (FY2021: £1,929m) of UK Government bonds (gilts), £476m 
(FY2021: £626m) of gilt repurchase obligations and £9m of interest and inflation swap assets (FY2021: £5m obligations).

The UK bond portfolios include forward FX contracts with a net value of £5m (FY2021: £1m). These are held to hedge against foreign 
currency risk in respect of overseas bonds.

The scheme assets do not include any property occupied by, or other assets used by, the Group.

Present value of funded scheme liabilities and assets for the main UK and US schemes

Present value of funded scheme liabilities:
– Active deferred members
– Deferred members
– Pensioners

Present value of funded scheme liabilities
Market value of scheme assets

Surplus restriction

Surplus/(deficit)

Net retirement benefit obligations

Market value of scheme assets

Present value of funded scheme liabilities
Surplus restriction

Surplus/(deficit)

Unfunded pension plans
Post-retirement healthcare

Present value of unfunded obligations

Net pension asset/(liability)

Retirement benefit assets
Retirement benefit liabilities

Liabilities held for sale

Net pension asset/(liability)

31 July 2022 – £m

31 July 2021 – £m

SIPS

TIGPS

US  
schemes

SIPS

TIGPS

US  
schemes

(32) 
(561) 
(1,010) 

(1,603) 
1,912 

–

309

(23) 
(442) 
(670) 

(1,135) 
1,155 

(20)

–

(41) 
(109) 
(88) 

(238) 
225 

–

(13)

(42)
(810)
(1,226)

(2,078)
2,410

–

332

(29)
(632)
(809)

(1,470)
1,684

–

214

(73)
(119)
(81)

(273)
272

–

(1)

31 July 2022 – £m

31 July 2021 – £m

UK  
schemes

US  
schemes

Other  
countries

3,067 

(2,738) 
(20) 

309 

(43) 
(4) 

(47) 

262 

309 

(47) 
–

262 

225 

(238) 
–

(13) 

(7) 
(1) 

(8) 

(21) 

–

(21) 
–

(21) 

22 

(27) 
–

(5) 

(40) 
(2) 

(42) 

(47) 

–

(47) 
–

(47) 

Total

3,314 

(3,003) 
(20) 

291 

(90) 
(7) 

(97) 

194 

309 

(115) 
–

194 

UK  
schemes

US  
schemes

Other  
countries

4,104
(3,558)

272
(273)

–

546

(54)
(4)

(58)

488

546
(58)

–

488

–

(1)

(7)
(1)

(8)

(9)

–
(9)

–

(9)

30
(38)

–

(8)

(55)
(3)

(58)

(66)

–
(61)

(5)

(66)

Total

4,406

(3,869)
–

537

(116)
(8)

(124)

413

546
(128)

(5)

413

Liabilities held for sale in FY2021 comprise £4m of unfunded pension plans and £1m deficit on defined benefit schemes within the Smiths 
Medical division.

Where any individual scheme shows a recoverable surplus under IAS 19, this is disclosed on the balance sheet as a retirement benefit asset. 
The IAS 19 surplus of any one scheme is not available to fund the IAS 19 deficit of another scheme. The retirement benefit asset disclosed 
arises from the rights of the employers to recover the surplus at the end of the life of the scheme i.e. when the last beneficiary’s obligation 
has been met. 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS 

Amounts recognised in the consolidated income statement 

Amounts charged to operating profit
Current service cost
Past service costs – benefit equalisations
Settlement loss
Scheme administration costs

The operating cost is charged as follows:
Headline administrative expenses
Non-headline settlement loss

Non-headline administrative expenses

Amounts credited to finance costs
Non-headline other finance income – retirement benefits

Amounts recognised directly in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income 

Re-measurements of retirement defined benefit assets and liabilities
Difference between interest credit and return on assets
Experience gains on scheme liabilities
Actuarial gains arising from changes in demographic assumptions

Actuarial gains/(losses) arising from changes in financial assumptions

Movement in surplus restriction

Changes in present value of funded scheme assets 

132

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

2
43
171
4

220

6

171
43

220

2
6
–
5

13

7
–

6

13

(7)

(6)

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

(835)
(31)
1 
868 

(20)

(17)

(57)
44
10
16

–

13

At beginning of period
Interest on assets
Actuarial movement on scheme assets
Employer contributions
Scheme administration costs
Foreign exchange rate movements
Assets transferred on business disposal
Assets distributed on settlements
Curtailment gains/(losses)
Benefits paid

At end of period

31 July 2022 – £m

31 July 2021 – £m

UK  
schemes

US  
schemes

Other  
countries

4,104 
70 
(773)
3 
(3)
–
– 
(180)
–
(154)

3,067

272 
8 
(62)
– 
(1)
33 
– 
– 
(9)
(16)

225

30 
1 
–
1 
– 
– 
(5)
– 
–
(5)

22

Total

4,406 
79 
(835)
4 
(4)
33 
(5)
(180)
(9)
(175)

3,314

UK  
schemes

US  
schemes

Other  
countries

4,240
58
(40)
20
(4)
–
–
–
–
(170)

4,104

311
7
(17)
4
(1)
(17)
–
–
–
(15)

272

31
1
–
1
–
–
–
–
–
(3)

30

Total

4,582
66
(57)
25
(5)
(17)
–
–
–
(188)

4,406

Changes in present value of funded defined benefit obligations

At beginning of period
Current service cost
Past service costs
Interest on obligations
Actuarial movement on liabilities
Foreign exchange rate movements
Liabilities transferred on business disposal
Curtailment gains/(losses)
Liabilities extinguished on settlements
Benefits paid

At end of period

31 July 2022 – £m

31 July 2021 – £m

UK  
schemes

US  
schemes

Other  
countries

(3,558)
–
(43)
(61)
761 
– 
–
– 
9
154 

(2,738)

(273)
–
–
(8)
54 
(33)
–
6 
–
16 

(238)

(38)
–
–
(1)
2 
–
5 
– 
–
5 

(27)

Total

(3,869)
–
(43)
(70)
817 
(33)
5 
6 
9
175 

(3,003)

UK  
schemes

US  
schemes

Other  
countries

(3,724)
–
(6)
(51)
53
–
–
–
–
170

(3,558)

(314)
–
–
(7)
16
17
–
–
–
15

(273)

(40)
(1)
–
(2)
–
2
–
–
–
3

(38)

Total

(4,078)
(1)
(6)
(60)
69
19
–
–
–
188

(3,869)

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

Changes in present value of unfunded defined benefit pensions and post-retirement healthcare plans

133

At beginning of period
Current service cost
Interest on obligations
Actuarial movement
Employer contributions
Foreign exchange rate movements
Liabilities transferred on business disposal
Benefits paid

At end of period

Changes in the effect of the asset ceiling over the year

Irrecoverable asset at beginning of period
Actuarial movement on scheme assets

At end of period

Assets

Obligations

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

–
–
–
–
5
–
–
(5)

–

–
–
–
–
5
–
–
(5)

–

(124)
(1)
(2)
21
–
–
4
5

(97)

(132)
(1)
(1)
2
–
3
–
5

(124)

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

–
(20)

(20)

–
–

–

Cash contributions
Company contributions to the defined benefit pension plans and post-retirement healthcare plans totalled £9m (FY2021: £30m). 
This comprised regular contributions to funded schemes of £3m (FY2021: £12m) to SIPS, £nil (FY2021: £8m) to TIGPS, £nil (FY2021: £4m) 
to funded US schemes and contributions to other schemes of £1m (FY2021: £1m). In addition, £5m (FY2021: £5m) was spent on providing 
benefits under unfunded defined benefit pension and post-retirement healthcare plans.

In FY2023, cash contributions to the Group’s schemes are expected to be up to £12m in total. 

9 Employee share schemes
The Group operates share schemes and plans for the benefit of employees. The nature of the principal schemes and plans, including general 
conditions, is set out below:

Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP)
The LTIP is a share plan under which an award over a capped number of shares will vest after the end of a three-year performance period if 
performance conditions are met. LTIP awards are made to selected senior executives, including the Executive Directors.

LTIP performance conditions
Each performance condition has a threshold below which no shares vest and a maximum performance target at or above which the 
award vests in full. For performance between ‘threshold’ and ‘maximum’, awards vest on a straight-line sliding scale. The performance 
conditions are assessed separately; so performance on one condition does not affect the vesting of the other elements of the award. To the 
extent that the performance targets are not met over the three-year performance period, awards lapse. There is no re-testing of the 
performance conditions.

LTIP awards have performance conditions relating to organic revenue growth, growth in headline EPS, ROCE, free cash-flow and meeting 
ESG targets.

Smiths Excellence Plan (SEP)
The last Smiths Excellence plan (SEP) grant was issued in October 2019, vested on 31 July 2021 and exercised in October 2021. No further 
SEP awards have been made.

Restricted stock 
Restricted stock is used by the Remuneration and People Committee, as a part of recruitment strategy, to make awards in recognition 
of incentive arrangements forfeited on leaving a previous employer. If an award is considered appropriate, the award will take account of 
relevant factors including the fair value of awards forfeited, any performance conditions attached, the likelihood of those conditions being 
met and the proportion of the vesting period remaining. 

Save as you earn (SAYE)
The SAYE scheme is an HM Revenue & Customs approved all-employee savings-related share option scheme which is open to all UK 
employees. Participants enter into a contract to save a fixed amount per month of up to £500 in aggregate for three years and are granted 
an option over shares at a fixed option price, set at a discount to market price at the date of invitation to participate. The number of shares is 
determined by the monthly amount saved and the bonus paid on maturity of the savings contract. Options granted under the SAYE scheme 
are not subject to any performance conditions.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

Ordinary shares under option/award (’000)

31 July 2020

Granted
Exercised
Lapsed

31 July 2021

Reclassification
Granted

Exercised
Lapsed

31 July 2022

134

Weighted 
average 
exercise 
price 

£1.89

£0.68
£2.03
£0.75

£1.63

–
£0.71

£1.90
£0.97

£1.45

Long-term 
 incentive 
 plans

SEP

Restricted 
stock

Save as you 
earn 
scheme

3,937

2,143
(346)
(819)

4,915

348
2,255

(224)
(1,984)

5,310

1,295

358
(411)
(391)

851

(348)
–

(313)
(190)

–

131

11
(60)
(18)

64

–
212

(163)
(30)

83

1,207

139
(165)
(96)

1,085

–
167

(138)
(229)

885

Total

6,570

2,651
(982)
(1,324)

6,915

–
2,634

(838)
(2,433)

6,278

Options and awards were exercised on an irregular basis during the period. The average closing share price over the financial year was 
1,476.3p (FY2021: 1,508.6p). There has been no change to the effective option price of any of the outstanding options during the period. 
The number of exercisable share options at 31 July 2022 was nil (31 July 2021: nil).

Range of exercise prices

£0.00 – £2.00
£6.01 – £10.00
£10.01 – £12.00

Total shares under  
options/awards  
at 31 July 2022 
(’000)

Weighted average 
remaining contractual  
life at 31 July 2022 
(months)

Total shares under  
options/awards  
at 31 July 2021 
(’000)

Weighted average 
remaining contractual  
life at 31 July 2021 
(months)

5,393
490
395

19
18
29

5,830
655
430

15
30
24

For the purposes of valuing options to arrive at the share-based payment charge, the binomial option pricing model has been used. The key 
assumptions used in the model were volatility of 25% to 20% (FY2021: 25% to 20%) and dividend yield of 2.6% (FY2021: 2.8%), based on 
historical data, for the period corresponding with the vesting period of the option. These generated a weighted average fair value for LTIP of 
£14.81 (FY2021: £14.10), and restricted stock of £14.59 (FY2021: £14.63). Staff costs included £15m (FY2021: £14m) for share-based payments, 
of which £14m (FY2021: £13m) related to equity-settled share-based payments.

10 Intangible assets

Cost

At 31 July 2020
Foreign exchange rate movements
Business combinations
Additions
Disposals

At 31 July 2021
Foreign exchange rate movements
Additions
At 31 July 2022

Amortisation and impairments

At 31 July 2020
Foreign exchange rate movements 

Amortisation charge for the year

Disposals

At 31 July 2021
Foreign exchange rate movements 

Amortisation charge for the year

Impairment charge for the year

At 31 July 2022

Net book value at 31 July 2022
Net book value at 31 July 2021
Net book value at 31 July 2020

Goodwill 
£m

Development 
costs 
£m

Acquired 
intangibles 
(see table 
 below) 
£m

Software, 
 patents and  
intellectual  
property 
£m

1,254

(68)
21
–
–
1,207

104
–
1,311

62

(3)

–

–

59

4

–

4

67

1,244
1,148

1,192

155

(7)
–
8
–
156

6
12
174

112

(5)

7

–

114

6

3

–

123

51
42

43

546

(30)
46
–
–
562

68
–
630

249

(15)

53

–

287

35

51

–

373

257
275

297

174

(6)
–
10
(1)
177

10
6
193

142

(4)

7

(1)

144

6

7

–

157

36
33

32

Total 
£m

2,129

(111)
67
18
(1)
2,102

188
18
2,308

565

(27)

67

(1)

604

51

61

4

720

1,588
1,498

1,564

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

In addition to goodwill, acquired intangible assets comprise:

Cost
At 31 July 2020
Foreign exchange rate movements
Business combinations

At 31 July 2021
Foreign exchange rate movements
At 31 July 2022

Amortisation

At 31 July 2020
Foreign exchange rate movements
Charge for the year

At 31 July 2021

Foreign exchange rate movements
Charge for the year

At 31 July 2022

Net book value at 31 July 2022
Net book value at 31 July 2021
Net book value at 31 July 2020

135

Patents,  
licences 
and  
trademarks 
£m

Technology 
£m

Customer 
relationships 
£m

Total  
acquired  
intangibles 
£m

15
(1)
3

17

2
19

4

–
1

5

1
2

8

11
12

11

139
(7)
2

134

18
152

60

(3)
10

67

10
10

87

65
67

79

392
(22)
41

411

48
459

185

(12)
42

215

24
39

278

181
196

207

546
(30)
46

562

68
630

249

(15)
53

287

35
51

373

257
275

297

Individually material intangible assets comprise £71m of customer related intangibles attributable to United Flexible (remaining amortisation 
period: 4 years), £61m of customer relationship intangibles attributable to Morpho Detection (remaining amortisation period:  
6 years), £35m of customer-related intangibles attributable to Royal Metal (remaining amortisation period: 6 years), and £19m of 
development cost intangibles attributable to a computed tomography programme in Detection that is currently under development.

The charge associated with the amortisation of intangible assets is included in operating costs on the consolidated income statement.

11 Impairment testing

Goodwill
Goodwill is tested for impairment at least annually or whenever there is an indication that the carrying value may not be recoverable. 

Further details of the impairment review process and judgements are included in the 'Sources of estimation uncertainty' section of the 
'Basis of preparation' for the consolidated financial statements.

For the purpose of impairment testing, assets are grouped at the lowest levels for which there are separately identifiable cash-flows, known 
as cash generating units (CGUs), taking into consideration the commonality of reporting, policies, leadership and intra-divisional trading 
relationships. Goodwill acquired through business combinations is allocated to groups of CGUs at a divisional (or operating segment) level, 
being the lowest level at which management monitors performance separately.

The carrying value of goodwill at 31 July is allocated by division as follows:

John Crane
Smiths Detection*
Flex-Tek
Smiths Interconnect
Smiths Medical

2022 
£m

132
644
194
274
–

1,244

2022 
Number of 
CGUs

1
2
1
1
–

5

2021 
£m

129
610
169
240
–

1,148

2021 
Number of 
CGUs

1
1
1
1
1

5

*   In FY2022 the Smiths Detection CGU has been restructured and the Detection Russia business split into a separate CGU, see the ‘Russia impairment charges and related closure costs’ 

section below for further details

Critical estimates used in impairment testing
The recoverable amount for impairment testing is determined from the higher of fair value less costs of disposal and value in use of the CGU. 
In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash-flows are discounted to their present value using a post-tax discount rate that reflects 
current market assessments of the time value of money, from which pre-tax discount rates are determined.

Fair value less costs of disposal is calculated using available information on past and expected future profitability, valuation multiples for 
comparable quoted companies and similar transactions (adjusted as required for significant differences) and information on costs of similar 
transactions. Fair value less costs to sell models are used when trading projections in the strategic plan cannot be adjusted to eliminate the 
impact of a major restructuring.

The value in use of CGUs is calculated as the net present value of the projected risk-adjusted cash-flows of each CGU. These cash-flow 
forecasts are based on the FY2023 business plan (as approved by the Board) and the five-year detailed divisional strategic projections which 
have been prepared by divisional management and approved by the Chief Financial Officer.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

136

The key assumptions used in determining the value in use were:
 – Revenue: Projected sales were built up with reference to markets and product categories. They incorporated past performance, historical 

growth rates and projections of developments in key markets;

 – Average earnings before interest and tax margin: Projected margins reflect historical performance, our expectations for future cost 

inflation and the impact of all completed projects to improve operational efficiency and leverage scale. The projections did not include the 
impact of future restructuring projects to which the Group was not yet committed;

 – Projected capital expenditure: The cash-flow forecasts for capital expenditure were based on past experience and included committed 
ongoing capital expenditure consistent with the FY2023 budget and the divisional strategic projections. The forecast did not include any 
future capital expenditure that improved/enhanced the operation/asset in excess of its current standard of performance;

 – Discount rate: The discount rates have been calculated based on the Group’s weighted average cost of capital and risks specific to the CGU 
being tested. In determining the risk adjusted discount rate, management considered the systematic risk to each of the Group’s CGUs and 
applied an average of discount rates used by other companies for the industries in which Smiths divisions operate. Pre-tax rates of 11.3% 
to 12.3% (FY2021: 9.9% to 13.2%) have been used for the impairment testing; and

 – Long-term growth rates: For the purposes of the Group’s value in use calculations, a long-term growth rate into perpetuity was applied 

immediately at the end of the five-year forecast period. Growth rates for the period after the detailed forecasts were based on the 
long-term GDP projections of the primary market for each CGU. The average growth rate used in the testing was 2.0% (FY2021: 2.1%). 
These rates did not reflect the long-term assumptions used by the Group for investment planning.

The assumptions used in the impairment testing of CGUs with significant goodwill balances were as follows: 

Net book value of goodwill (£m)

Basis of valuation

Discount rate

 – pre-tax
 – post-tax

Period covered by management projections
Revenue – compound annual growth rate over projection period
Average earnings before interest and tax margin
Long-term growth rates

Net book value of goodwill (£m)

Basis of valuation

Discount rate

– pre-tax
– post-tax

Period covered by management projections
Revenue – compound annual growth rate over projection period
Average earnings before interest and tax margin
Long-term growth rates

John Crane

132

Smiths  
Detection

640

As at 31 May 2022

Smiths  
Interconnect

266

Flex-Tek

187

Value in use

Value in use

Value in use

Value in use

12.3%
9.1%
5 years
5.3%
24.9%
1.9%

Smiths  
Detection

610

11.3%
8.7%
5 years
3.8%
14.1%
2.4%

Flex-Tek

169

11.7%
9.2%
5 years
3.8%
19.7%
1.7%

11.5%
9.3%
5 years
6.0%
17.8%
2.1%

As at 31 July 2021

Smiths  
Interconnect

240

Smiths  
Medical

535

John Crane

129

Value in use

Value in use

Value in use

Value in use

Value in use

13.2%
9.5%
5 years
6.4%
25.4%
2.1%

10.3%
8.2%
5 years
2.8%
13.4%
1.8%

11.4%
9.1%
5 years
5.0%
20.0%
1.9%

11.1%
9.0%
5 years
5.9%
19.0%
2.4%

9.9%
8.0%
5 years
5.9%
18.8%
2.2%

Forecast earnings before interest and tax have been projected using:
 – expected future sales based on the strategic plan, which was constructed at a market level with input from key account managers, product 
line managers, business development and sales teams. An assessment of the market and existing contracts/programmes was made to 
produce the sales forecast; and

 – current cost structure and production capacity, which include our expectations for future cost inflation. The projections did not include the 

impact of future restructuring projects to which the Group was not yet committed.

Sensitivity analysis
With the exception of the Smiths Detection CGU, the recoverable amount of all CGUs exceeded their carrying value, on the basis of the 
assumptions set out in the table above and any reasonably possible changes thereof.

The estimated recoverable amount of the Smiths Detection CGU exceeded the carrying value by £110m. Any decline in estimated value 
in use in excess of this amount would result in the recognition of impairment charges. If the assumptions used in the impairment review 
were changed to a greater extent than as presented in the following table, the changes would, in isolation, lead to impairment losses being 
recognised for the year ended 31 July 2022:

Change required for carrying value to equal recoverable amount – FY2022

Revenue – compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over 5-year projection period 
Average earnings before interest and tax margin
Post-tax discount rate

Smiths Detection

-240 bps decrease
-130 bps decrease

+70 bps increase

Note:  Long-term growth rates are not included in the sensitivity table above as management consider that there is no reasonably possible change in long-term growth rate that would result in 

an impairment.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

Change required for carrying value to equal recoverable amount – FY2021

Revenue – compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over 5-year projection period 
Post-tax discount rate

137

Smiths Detection

-560 bps decrease
+220 bps increase

Property, plant and equipment, right of use assets and finite-life intangible assets
At each reporting period date, the Group reviews the carrying amounts of its property, plant, equipment, right of use assets and finite-life 
intangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss.

The Group has no indefinite life intangible assets other than goodwill. During the year, impairment tests were carried out for capitalised 
development costs that have not yet started to be amortised and acquired intangibles where there were indications of impairment. Value in 
use calculations were used to determine the recoverable values of these assets. 

In the current year the Group has recognised £17m of impairment charges against its Russia related net balance sheet exposure 
(FY2021: £nil), see below.

Russia impairment charges and related closure costs
As announced in March 2022, in the current year the Group suspended sales into Russia. Following this decision the Smiths Detection 
reporting structure has been restructured and the Detection Russia business split into a separate CGU, £4m of the Detection CGU has been 
apportioned to the Detection Russia CGU and fully impaired. 

Management has assessed all Group operations for their exposure to Russia and the value of these Russia related net assets has been 
fully impaired in FY2022. The Group has recognised £19m of Russia related impairment charges and closure costs through non-headline 
operating expenses in FY2022 (see note 3), which are analysed as follows: 

Goodwill
Working capital balances

Net impairment charge
Related closure costs

Russian impairment and related closure costs

12 Property, plant and equipment

Cost or valuation

At 31 July 2020
Foreign exchange rate movements
Business combinations
Additions

Disposals

At 31 July 2021
Foreign exchange rate movements
Additions
Disposals

At 31 July 2022

Depreciation

At 31 July 2020
Foreign exchange rate movements
Charge for the year

Disposals

At 31 July 2021
Foreign exchange rate movements
Charge for the year
Disposals

At 31 July 2022

Net book value at 31 July 2022
Net book value at 31 July 2021
Net book value at 31 July 2020

John Crane 
£m

Smiths 
Detection 
£m

–
9

9
–

9

4
4

8
2

10

Land and 
buildings 
£m

Plant and 
machinery 
£m

Fixtures, 
fittings, 
tools and 
equipment 
£m

175

(6)
–
6
(3)

172

14
4
(14)

176

102

(3)
10
(3)

106

9
7
(14)

108

68
66

73

383

(21)
2
38
(14)

388

37
42
(10)

457

261

(15)
26
(12)

260

25
24
(10)

299

158
128

122

133

(6)
–
–
(5)

122

6
6
(5)

129

110

(6)
4
(4)

104

5
7
(4)

112

17
18

23

Total 
£m

4
13

17
2

19

Total 
£m

691

(33)
2
44
(22)

682

57
52
(29)

762

473

(24)
40
(19)

470

39
38
(28)

519

243
212

218

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS 

13 Right of use assets

Cost or valuation
At 31 July 2020
Foreign exchange rate movements
Business combinations
Recognition of right of use asset
Derecognition of right of use asset

At 31 July 2021

Foreign exchange rate movements
Recognition of right of use asset
Derecognition of right of use asset
At 31 July 2022

Depreciation
At 31 July 2020
Foreign exchange rate movements
Charge for the year

Derecognition of right of use asset 

At 31 July 2021
Foreign exchange rate movements
Charge for the year
Derecognition of right of use asset

At 31 July 2022

Net book value at 31 July 2022
Net book value at 31 July 2021

Net book value at 31 July 2020

Properties 
£m

Vehicles 
£m

Equipment 
£m

110
(5)
9
44

(12)
146

12
18
(2)
174

26
(2)
27

(5)

46
5
25
(1)

75

99

100

84

14
(1)
1
3

–
17

1
4
(1)
21

5
–
5

–

10
1
5
(1)

15

6

7

9

1
–
–
–

–
1

–
–
–
1

–
–
–

–

–
–
–
–

–

1

1

1

14 Financial assets – other investments

Cost or valuation
At 31 July 2020
Disposals
Fair value change through Other Comprehensive Income
At 31 July 2021
Foreign exchange rate movements
Additions

Disposal

Fair value change through Profit and Loss
Fair value change through Other Comprehensive Income

At 31 July 2022

Investment in 
ICU Medical, 
Inc equity 
£m

Deferred 
contingent 
consideration 
£m

Investments 
in early stage 
businesses 
£m

Cash 
collateral 
deposit 
£m

–
–
–
–
–
426

–

–
(62)

364

–
–
–
–
–
30

–

(11)
–

19

8
–
(1)
7
1
4

(4)

1
(1)

8

11
(7)
–
4
–
–

–

–
–

4

138

Total 
£m

125
(6)
10
47

(12)
164

13
22
(3)
196

31
(2)
32

(5)

56
6
30
(2)

90

106

108

94

Total 
£m

19
(7)
(1)
11
1
460
(4)

(10)

(63)

395

Following the sale of Smiths Medical the Group has recognised a financial asset for its investment in 10% of the equity in ICU Medical, Inc 
(ICU) and a financial asset for the fair value of $100m additional sales consideration that is contingent on the future share price performance 
of ICU.

The Group's investments in early stage businesses are in businesses that are developing or commercialising related technology. 
Cash collateral deposits represent amounts held on deposit with banks as security for liabilities or letters of credit.

15 Inventories

Raw materials and consumables
Work in progress
Finished goods

Total inventories

31 July 2022 
£m

31 July 2021 
£m

187
106
277

570

117
81
183

381

In FY2022, operating costs for continuing operations included £1,323m (FY2021: £1,233m) of inventory consumed, £12m (FY2021: £8m) was 
charged for the write-down of inventory and £12m (FY2021: £4m) was released from provisions no longer required. 

Discontinued operations consumed £95m (FY2021: £218m) of inventory, £nil (FY2021: £4m) was charged for the write-down of inventory and 
£nil (FY2021: £1m) was released from provisions no longer required. Further details of discontinued operations are disclosed in note 27.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

Inventory provisioning

Gross inventory carried at full value
Gross value of inventory partly or fully provided for

Inventory provision

Inventory after provisions

16 Trade and other receivables

Non-current

Trade receivables

Contract assets
Other receivables

Current
Trade receivables
Prepayments
Contract assets
Other receivables

139

31 July 2022 
£m

31 July 2021 
£m

492
131

623
(53)

570

324
104

428
(47)

381

31 July 2022 
£m

31 July 2021 
£m

1

58
10

69

506
33
127
72

738

–

49
10

59

431
26
131
42

630

Trade receivables do not carry interest. Management considers that the carrying value of trade and other receivables approximates to the 
fair value. Trade and other receivables, including prepayments, accrued income and other receivables qualifying as financial instruments 
are accounted for at amortised cost. The maximum credit exposure arising from these financial assets was £726m (FY2021: £629m).

Contract assets comprise unbilled balances not yet due on contracts, where revenue recognition does not align with the agreed payment 
schedule. The main movements in the year arose from increases in contract asset balances of £19m (FY2021: £18m) principally within 
Smiths Detection, offset by £15m of foreign currency translation losses (FY2021: £6m loss). 

A number of Flex-Tek’s and Interconnect's customers provide supplier finance schemes which allow their suppliers to sell trade receivables, 
without recourse, to banks. This is commonly known as invoice discounting or factoring. During FY2022 the Group collected £92m of 
receivables through these schemes (FY2021: £90m). The impact of invoice discounting on the FY2022 balance sheet was that trade 
receivables were reduced by £19m (2021: £14m). The cash received via these schemes was classified as an operating cash inflow as it had 
arisen from operating activities. 

Trade receivables are disclosed net of provisions for expected credit loss, with historical write-offs used as a basis and a default risk 
multiplier applied to reflect country risk premium. Credit risk is managed separately for each customer and, where appropriate, a credit 
limit is set for the customer based on previous experience of the customer and third-party credit ratings. The Group has no significant 
concentration of credit risk, with exposure spread over a large number of customers. The largest single customer was the US Federal 
Government, representing 7% (FY2021: 7%) of Group revenue.

Ageing of trade receivables

Trade receivables which are not yet due
Trade receivables which are between 1-30 days overdue
Trade receivables which are between 31-60 days overdue
Trade receivables which are between 61-90 days overdue
Trade receivables which are between 91-120 days overdue
Trade receivables which are more than 120 days overdue

Expected credit loss allowance provision

Trade receivables

Movement in expected credit loss allowance

Brought forward loss allowance at the start of the period
Exchange adjustments
Increase in allowance recognised in the income statement
Amounts written off or recovered during the year

Carried forward loss allowance at the end of the year

31 July 2022 
£m

31 July 2021 
£m

396
51
24
11
7
54

543
(36)

507

338
45
15
8
5
52

463
(32)

431

31 July 2022 
£m

31 July 2021 
£m

32
4
8
(8)

36

35
(2)
6
(7)

32

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

17 Trade and other payables

Non-current
Other payables

Contract liabilities

Current
Trade payables
Other payables
Other taxation and social security costs
Accruals
Contract liabilities 

140

31 July 2022 
£m

31 July 2021
£m

13
33

46

282
57
30
183
130

682

13

46

59

188
39
28
188
87

530

Trade and other payables, including accrued expenses and other payables qualifying as financial instruments, are accounted for at 
amortised cost and are categorised as Trade and other financial payables in note 21. 

Contract liabilities comprise deferred income balances of £163m (FY2021: £133m) in respect of payments being made in advance of revenue 
recognition. The movement in the year arises primarily from the long-term contracts of the Smiths Detection division where invoicing under 
milestones precedes the delivery of the programme performance obligations. Revenue recognised in the year includes £113m (FY2021: £94m) 
that was included in the opening contract liabilities balance. This revenue primarily relates to the delivery of performance obligations in the 
Smiths Detection business.

18 Borrowings and net debt
This note sets out the calculation of net debt, an important measure in explaining our financing position. Net debt includes accrued interest 
and fair value adjustments relating to hedge accounting. 

Cash and cash equivalents

Net cash and deposits 
Short-term borrowings

€600m 1.25% Eurobond 2023
Overdrafts
Lease liabilities

Interest accrual

Long-term borrowings

$400m 3.625% US$ Guaranteed notes 2022
€600m 1.25% Eurobond 2023
€650m 2.00% Eurobond 2027

Lease liabilities

Borrowings / Gross debt

Derivatives managing interest rate risk and currency profile of the debt

Net cash/(debt) (31 July 2021 comparative excludes £4m of net cash in businesses held for sale)

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash at bank and in hand 

Short-term deposits

Cash and cash equivalents

31 July 2022 
£m

31 July 2021 
£m

1,056

405

(502)
(1)
(29)
(6)

(538)

–
–
(538)
(90)

(628)

(1,166)

(40)

(150)

–
–
(27)
(9)

(36)

(289)
(516)
(567)
(94)

(1,466)

(1,502)

75

(1,022)

31 July 2022 
£m

31 July 2021 
£m

242
814

1,056

219
186

405

Cash and cash equivalents include highly liquid investments with maturities of three months or less. Borrowings are accounted for 
at amortised cost and are categorised as other financial liabilities. See note 18 for a maturity analysis of borrowings. Interest of £30m 
(FY2021: £30m) was charged to the consolidated income statement in the period in respect of public bonds. 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

Analysis of financial derivatives on balance sheet

Derivatives managing interest rate risk and currency profile of the debt
Foreign exchange forward contracts 
At 31 July 2022

Derivatives managing interest rate risk and currency profile of the debt
Foreign exchange forward contracts 

At 31 July 2021

141

Non-current 
assets
£m

Current  
assets
£m

Current 
liabilities
£m

Non-current 
liabilities
£m

Net balance 
£m

–
–
–

75
–

75

–
4
4

–
2

2

(20)
(7)
(27)

–
(3)

(3)

(20)
–
(20)

–
–

–

(40)
(3)
(43)

75

(1)

74

Movements in assets/(liabilities) arising from financing activities

At 31 July 2020
Foreign exchange gains/(losses)
Net cash inflow from continuing operations *
Lease liabilities acquired
Net movement from lease modifications
Fair value movement from interest rate hedging
Revaluation of derivative contracts
Interest expense taken to income statement**
Interest paid
Reclassification to short-term borrowings
At 31 July 2021
Foreign exchange gains/(losses)
Net cash inflow from continuing operations *
Net movement from lease modifications
Fair value movement from interest rate hedging
Revaluation of derivative contracts
Interest expense taken to income statement**
Interest paid
Reclassification to short-term borrowings

At 31 July 2022

Changes in net debt

Cash  
and cash  
equivalents 
£m

Other  
short-term  
borrowings 
£m

Long-term  
borrowings 
£m

Interest rate 
& cross-
currency  
swaps 
£m

366
 (24)
 63 
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
 405 
62
589
–
–
–
–
–
–
1,056

(41)
 2 
 33 
 (1)
 (46)
–
–
 (4)
–
 21 
 (36)
(3)
34
(22)
2
–
(35)
–
(478)
(538)

(1,520)
 79 
–
 (10)
–
 8 
–
 (31)
 29 
 (21)
 (1,466)
4
295
–
27
–
–
34
478
(628)

82
–
–
–
–
–
 (7)
–
– 
–
 75 
–
–
–
–
(115)
–
–
–
(40)

Changes in 
other financing 
items: FX 
contracts 
£m

Total 
liabilities 
from financing 
activities 
£m

(2)
(3,200)
3,200
–
–
–
3
–
–
–
1
(6,799)
6,799
–
–
(4)
–
–
–
(3)

(1,115)
 (3,143)
 3,296 
 (11)
 (46)
 8 
 (4)
 (35)
 29 
 – 
 (1,021)
(6,736)
7,717
(22)
29
(119)
(35)
34
–
(153)

Net debt 
£m

(1,113)
 57 
 96 
 (11)
 (46)
 8 
 (7)
 (35)
 29 
– 
 (1,022)
63
918
(22)
29
(115)
(35)
34
–
(150)

* 

In FY21, the net cash inflow for the total Group including discontinued operations was £91m. £63m from continuing operations and £28m from discontinued operations. In FY22, the net 
cash inflow for the total Group including discontinued operations was £589m, £57m of which related to the cash held by the Smiths Medical at the time of disposal.

**   The Group has also incurred £8m (FY2021: £9m) of bank charges that were expensed when paid and were not included in net debt.

Cash pooling
Cash and overdraft balances in interest compensation cash pooling systems are reported gross on the balance sheet. The cash pooling 
agreements incorporate a legally enforceable right of net settlement. However, as there is no intention to settle the balances net, these 
arrangements do not qualify for net presentation. At 31 July 2022 the total value of overdrafts on accounts in interest compensation cash 
pooling systems was £nil (FY2021: £nil). The balances held in zero balancing cash pooling arrangements have daily settlement of balances. 
Therefore netting is not relevant. 

Secured loans
Loans amounting to £nil (FY2021: £nil) were secured on plant and equipment with a book value of £nil (FY2021: £nil). 

Change of control
The Company has in place credit facility agreements under which a change in control would trigger prepayment clauses. The Company also 
has bonds in issue, the terms of which would allow bondholders to exercise put options and require the Company to buy back the bonds at 
their principal amount plus interest if a rating downgrade occurs at the same time as a change of control takes effect.

Lease liabilities
Lease liabilities have been measured at the present value of the remaining lease payments. The weighted average incremental borrowing 
rate applied to lease liabilities in FY2022 was 3.63% (FY2021: 3.3%). 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

142

19 Financial risk management
The Group’s international operations and debt financing expose it to financial risks which include the effects of changes in foreign exchange 
rates, debt market prices, interest rates, credit risks and liquidity risks. The management of operational credit risk is discussed in note 16.

Treasury Risk Management Policy
The Board maintains a Treasury Risk Management Policy, which governs the treasury operations of the Group and its subsidiary companies 
and the consolidated financial risk profile to be maintained. A report on treasury activities, financial metrics and compliance with the Policy  
is circulated to the Chief Financial Officer each month and key elements to the Audit and Risk Committee on a semi-annual basis.

The Policy maintains a treasury control framework within which counterparty risk, financing and debt strategy, cash and liquidity, interest 
rate risk and currency translation management are reserved for Group Treasury, while currency transaction management is devolved to 
operating divisions.

Centrally directed cash management systems exist globally to manage overall liquid resources efficiently across the divisions. The Group 
uses financial instruments to raise financing for its global operations, to manage related interest rate and currency financial risk, and to 
hedge transaction risk within subsidiary companies.

The Group does not speculate in financial instruments. All financial instruments hedge existing business exposures and all are recognised 
on the balance sheet.

The Policy defines four treasury risk components and for each component a set of financial metrics to be measured and reported monthly 
against pre-agreed objectives.

1) Credit quality
The Group’s strategy is to maintain a solid investment-grade rating to ensure access to the widest possible sources of financing at the 
right time and to optimise the resulting cost of debt capital. The credit ratings at the end of July 2022 were BBB+ / Baa2 (both stable) from 
Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s respectively. An essential element of an investment-grade rating is consistent and robust cash-flow metrics. 
The Group’s objective is to maintain a net debt/headline EBITDA ratio of two times or lower over the medium term. Capital management is 
discussed in more detail in note 26.

2) Debt and interest rate 
The Group’s risk management objectives are to ensure that the majority of funding is drawn from the public debt markets with the average 
maturity profile of gross debt to be at or greater than three years, and between 40-60% of gross debt is at fixed rates. At 31 July 2022 these 
measures were 100% (FY2021: 100%), 2.7 years (FY2021: 3.2 years) and 50% (FY2021: 54%). The average maturity profile of gross debt is 
below the target of three years because the net cash resources of £1,055m are sufficient to cover the short-term borrowings of £538m.

The Group remains in full compliance with all covenants within its external debt agreements. Interest rate risk management is discussed  
in note 19(b).

3) Liquidity management
The Group’s objective is to ensure that at any time undrawn committed facilities, net of short-term overdraft financing, are at least £300m 
and that committed facilities have at least 12 months to run until maturity. At 31 July 2022, these measures were £657m (FY2021: £575m)  
and 27 months (FY2021: 39 months). At 31 July 2022, net cash resources were £1,055m (FY2021: £405m). Liquidity risk management is 
discussed in note 19(d).

4) Currency management
The Group is an international business with the majority of its net assets denominated in foreign currency. It protects the balance sheet 
and reserves from adverse foreign exchange movements by financing foreign currency assets where appropriate in the same currency. 
The Group’s objective for managing transaction currency exposure is to reduce medium-term volatility to cash-flow, margins and earnings. 
Foreign exchange risk management is discussed in note 18(a) below. 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS143

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

(a) Foreign exchange risk

Transactional currency exposure
The Group is exposed to foreign currency risks arising from sales or purchases by businesses in currencies other than their functional 
currency. It is Group policy that, when the net foreign exchange exposure to known future sales and purchases is material, this exposure 
is hedged using forward foreign exchange contracts. The net exposure is calculated by adjusting the expected cash-flow for payments or 
receipts in the same currency linked to the sale or purchase. This policy minimises the risk that the profits generated from the transaction 
will be affected by foreign exchange movements which occur after the price has been determined. Hedge accounting documentation and 
effectiveness testing are only undertaken if it is cost effective.

The following table shows the currency of financial instruments. It excludes loans and derivatives designated as net investment hedges.

Financial assets and liabilities
Financial instruments included in trade and other receivables
Financial instruments included in trade and other payables
Cash and cash equivalents

Borrowings not designated as net investment hedges

Exclude balances held in operations with the same functional currency.
Exposure arising from intra-Group loans
Future forward foreign exchange contract cash-flows

Financial assets and liabilities
Financial instruments included in trade and other receivables
Financial instruments included in trade and other payables
Cash and cash equivalents
Borrowings not designated as net investment hedges

Exclude balances held in operations with the same functional currency
Exposure arising from intra-Group loans
Future forward foreign exchange contract cash-flows

Sterling 
£m

41 
(52)
355 
(28)

316 
(322)
–
(42)

(48)

Sterling 
£m

28
(49)
46
(31)
(6)
7
–
(51)

(50)

US$ 
£m

423 
(239)
506 
(58)

632 
(149)
(419)
(40)

24 

US$ 
£m

326
(167)
187
(55)
291
(110)
(182)
(67)

(68)

At 31 July 2022

Euro 
£m

Other 
£m

Total 
£m

114 
(98)
74 
(14)

76 
(80)
(27)
(38)

(69)

Euro 
£m

113
(79)
80
(12)
102
(80)
(19)
22

25

169 
(101)
120 
(19)

169 
(142)
(89)
120 

58 

Other 
£m

177
(64)
92
(21)
184
(183)
(75)
96

22

747 
(490)
1,055 
(119)

1,193 
(693)
(535)
– 

(35)

At 31 July 2021

Total 
£m

644
(359)
405
(119)
571
(366)
(276)
–

(71)

Financial instruments included in trade and other receivables comprise trade receivables, accrued income and other receivables which 
qualify as financial instruments. Similarly, financial instruments included in trade and other payables comprise trade payables, accrued 
expenses and other payables that qualify as financial instruments. 

Based on the assets and liabilities held at the year-end, if the specified currencies were to strengthen 10% while all other market 
rates remained constant, the change in the fair value of financial instruments not designated as net investment hedges would have the 
following effect: 

US dollar
Euro
Sterling

Impact on 
profit 
 for the year 
FY2022 
£m

Gain/(loss) 
 recognised in 
reserves 
FY2022 
£m

Impact on 
profit 
 for the year 
FY2021 
£m

Gain/(loss) 
 recognised in 
reserves  
FY2021 
£m

(3)
8
4

1
(1)
–

3
2
(1)

2
(5)
2

These sensitivities were calculated before adjusting for tax and exclude the effect of quasi-equity intra-Group loans. 

Cash-flow hedging
The Group uses forward foreign exchange contracts to hedge future foreign currency sales and purchases. At 31 July 2022, contracts with a 
nominal value of £141m (FY2021: £107m) were designated as hedging instruments. In addition, the Group had outstanding foreign currency 
contracts with a nominal value of £226m (FY2021: £251m) which were being used to manage transactional foreign exchange exposures, but 
were not accounted for as cash-flow hedges. The fair value of the contracts is disclosed in note 20.

The majority of hedged transactions will be recognised in the consolidated income statement in the same period that the cash-flows are 
expected to occur, with the only differences arising because of normal commercial credit terms on sales and purchases. It is the Group’s 
policy to hedge 80% of certain exposures for the next two years and 50% of highly probable exposures for the next 12 months.

Hedge effectiveness is determined at the inception of the hedge relationship, and through periodic prospective effectiveness assessments 
to ensure that an economic relationship exists between the hedged item and hedging instrument. The foreign exchange forward contracts 
have similar critical terms to the hedged items, such as the notional amounts and maturities. Therefore, there is an economic relationship 
and the hedge ratio is established as 1:1.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

144

The main sources of hedge ineffectiveness in these hedging relationships are the effect of the Group's and the counterparty credit risks 
on the fair value of the foreign exchange forward contracts, which is not reflected in the fair value of the hedged item and the risk of 
over-hedging where the hedge relationship requires re-balancing. No other sources of ineffectiveness emerged from these hedging 
relationships. Any hedge ineffectiveness is recognised immediately in the income statement in the period that it occurs. Of the foreign 
exchange contracts designated as hedging instruments, 98% are for periods of 12 months or less (FY2021: 89%).

The following table presents a reconciliation by risk category of the cash-flow hedge reserve and analysis of other comprehensive income  
in relation to hedge accounting:

Brought forward cash-flow hedge reserve at start of year
Foreign exchange forward contracts:

Net fair value gains on effective hedges
Amount reclassified to income statement – cost of sales
Amount reclassified to income statement – finance costs

Carried forward cash-flow hedge reserve at end of year

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

2
(6)
–
1

(3)

–
1
1

–
2

The following tables set out information regarding the change in value of the hedged item used in calculating hedge ineffectiveness as well 
as the impacts on the cash-flow hedge reserve:

Hedged item

Hedged exposure

Hedging instrument

Financial year

Sales and 
purchases

Foreign currency 
risk

Foreign exchange 
contracts

FY2022

FY2021

Changes in value of the 
hedged item for calculating 
ineffectiveness 
£m

Changes in value of the 
hedging instrument for 
calculating ineffectiveness 
£m

(6)

1

6

(1)

Cash-flow 
hedge reserve 
£m

(6)

1

Cash-flow hedges generated £nil of ineffectiveness in FY2022 (FY2021: £nil) which was recognised in the income statement through 
finance costs.

Translational currency exposure
The Group has significant investments in overseas operations, particularly in the US and Europe. As a result, the sterling value of the Group’s 
balance sheet can be significantly affected by movements in exchange rates. The Group seeks to mitigate the effect of these translational 
currency exposures by matching the net investment in overseas operations with borrowings denominated in their functional currencies, 
except where significant adverse interest differentials or other factors would render the cost of such hedging activity uneconomic. This is 
achieved by borrowing primarily in the relevant currency or in some cases indirectly using cross-currency swaps. 

Net investment hedges
The table below sets out the currency of loans and swap contracts designated as net investment hedges:

Loans designated as net investment hedges

Cross-currency swap

At 31 July 2022

At 31 July 2021

US$ 
£m

–
(615)

(615)

Euro 
£m

(451)
–

(451)

Total 
£m

(451)
(615)

(1,066)

US$ 
£m

(285)
(539)

(824)

Euro 
£m

(459)
–

(459)

Total 
£m

(744)
(539)

(1,283)

At 31 July 2022, cross-currency swaps hedged the Group’s exposure to US dollars and euros (31 July 2021: US dollars and euros). All the 
cross-currency swaps designated as net investment hedges were current and non-current (FY2021: non-current).

Swaps generating £354m of the US dollar exposure (FY2021: £310m) will mature in April 2023 and swaps generating £261m of the US dollar 
exposure (FY2021: £229m) will mature in February 2027.

In addition, non-swapped borrowings were also used to hedge the Group’s exposure to US dollars and euros (31 July 2021 US dollars and 
euros). Borrowings generating £285m of the US dollar exposure (FY2021: £285m) have been prepaid in February 2022.

Borrowings generating £500m of the euro exposure (FY2021: £508m) will mature in April 2023 and borrowings generating £287m of the euro 
exposure (FY2021: £292m) will mature in February 2027. 

Hedge effectiveness is determined at the inception of the hedge relationship, and through periodic prospective effectiveness assessments 
to ensure that an economic relationship exists between the hedged item and hedging instrument. The swaps and borrowings have the same 
notional amount as the hedged items and, therefore, there is an economic relationship with the hedge ratio established as 1:1.

The main sources of hedge ineffectiveness in these hedging relationships is the effect of the counterparty and the Group’s own credit 
risk on the fair value of the foreign exchange forward contracts which is not reflected in the fair value of the hedged item and the risk of 
over-hedging where the hedge relationship requires re-balancing. No other sources of ineffectiveness emerged from these hedging 
relationships. Any hedge ineffectiveness is recognised immediately in the income statement in the period that it occurs.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

145

The following table presents a reconciliation by risk category of the net investment hedge reserve and analysis of other comprehensive 
income in relation to hedge accounting:

Brought forward net investment hedge reserve at start of year

Cross-currency swaps

Bonds

Net fair value gains on effective hedges

Net fair value gains on effective hedges

Amounts removed from the hedge reserve and 
recognised in the income statement
Carried forward net investment hedge reserve at end of year

Profit/(loss) on business disposal 

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

(238)

(82)
5

103 

(314)

14
62

– 

(212)

(238)

The following table sets out information regarding the change in value of the hedged item used in calculating hedge ineffectiveness as well 
as the impacts on the net investment hedge reserve as at 31 July 2022 and 31 July 2021:

Hedged item

Hedged exposure

Hedging instrument

Financial year

Overseas  
operation

Foreign currency  
risk

Cross-currency swaps FY2022
FY2022
Bonds

Overseas  
operation

Foreign currency  
risk

Cross-currency swaps FY2021
FY2021
Bonds

Changes in value of the 
hedged item for calculating 
ineffectiveness 
£m

Changes in value of the 
hedging instrument for 
calculating ineffectiveness 
£m

Net investment 
hedge reserve 
 £m

82
(5)

77

(14)
(62)

(76)

(82)
5

(77)

17
62

79

(82)
5

(77)

14
62

76

Net investment hedges generated £1m of ineffectiveness in FY2022 (FY2021: £3m) which was recognised in the income statement through 
finance costs.

The fair values of these net investment hedges are subject to exchange rate movements. Based on the hedging instruments in place 
at the year-end, if the specified currencies were to strengthen 10% while all other market rates remained constant, it would have the 
following effect: 

US dollar
Euro

 Loss 
 recognised  
in hedge  
reserve 
31 July 2022 
£m

Loss 
 recognised  
in hedge  
reserve  
31 July 2021 
£m

68
50

92
51

These movements would be fully offset by an opposite movement on the retranslation of the net assets of the overseas subsidiaries. 
These sensitivities were calculated before adjusting for tax.

(b) Interest rate risk
The Group operates an interest rate policy designed to optimise interest cost and reduce volatility in reported earnings. The Group’s current 
policy is to require interest rates to be fixed within a band of between 40% and 60 % of the level of gross debt. This is achieved through fixed 
rate borrowings and interest rate swaps. At 31 July 2022, 50% (FY2021: 54%) of the Group’s gross borrowings were at fixed interest rates, 
after adjusting for interest rate swaps and the impact of short maturity derivatives designated as net investment hedges.

The Group monitors its fixed rate risk profile against both gross and net debt. For medium-term planning, it focuses on gross debt to 
eliminate the fluctuations of variable cash levels over the cycle. The weighted average interest rate on borrowings and cross-currency 
swaps at 31 July 2022, after interest rate swaps, was 3.06% (FY2021: 2.06%).

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

146

Interest rate profile of financial assets and liabilities and the fair value of borrowings
The following table shows the interest rate risk exposure of investments, cash and borrowings, with the borrowings adjusted for the impact 
of interest rate hedging. Other financial assets and liabilities do not earn or bear interest, and for all financial instruments except borrowings, 
the carrying value is not materially different from their fair value.

As at 31 July 2022

As at 31 July 2021

At fair value 
through  
profit or loss 
£m

Cash and 
cash 
 equivalents 
£m

Borrowings 
£m

Fair value of 
borrowings 
£m

At fair value 
through profit 
or loss 
£m

Cash and 
cash  
equivalents 
£m

Borrowings 
£m

Fair value of 
 borrowings 
£m

Fixed interest 
Less than one year

Between one and five years
Greater than five years

Total fixed interest financial liabilities 
Floating rate interest financial assets/(liabilities)*

Total interest-bearing financial  
assets/(liabilities)
Non-interest-bearing assets in the same category

Total

–

–
–

–
390

390
4

394

–

–
–

–
970

970
86

1,056

(203)

(357)
(24)

(584)
(582)

(1,166)
–

(1,166)

(203)

(359)
(24)

(586)
(586)

(1,172)
–

(1,172)

–

–
–

–
4

4
7

11

–

–
–

–
333

333
72

405

(36)

(418)
(321)

(775)
(727)

(36)

(434)
(353)

(823)
(736)

(1,502)
–

(1,502)

(1,559)
–

(1,559)

*  Fair value gains and losses in this category of assets are recognised in other comprehensive income.

Interest rate hedging
The Group also has exposures to the fair values of non-derivative financial instruments such as EUR and USD fixed rate borrowings. 
To manage the risk of changes in these fair values, the Group has entered into fixed-to-floating interest rate swaps and cross-currency 
interest rate swaps which for accounting purposes are designated as fair value hedges.

At 31 July 2022 and 31 July 2021, the Group had designated the following hedges against variability in the fair value of borrowings arising 
from fluctuations in base rates:
 – €400m of the fixed/floating element of the EUR/USD interest rate swaps that mature on 28 April 2023 partially hedging the € 

2023 Eurobond;

 – €300m of the fixed/floating and € exchange exposure of EUR/USD interest rate swaps maturing on 23 February 2027 partially hedging the  

€ 2027 Eurobond; and

 – The $150m interest rate swap which matures on 12 October 2022, partially hedging the USD 2022 Guaranteed notes, was early redeemed 

in February 2022.

The fair values of the hedging instruments are disclosed in note 20. The effect of the swaps was to convert £588m (FY2021: £705m) 
debt from fixed rate to floating rate. The swaps have similar critical terms to the hedged items, such as the reference rate, reset dates, 
notional amounts, payment dates and maturities. Therefore, there is an economic relationship and the hedge ratio is established as 1:1. 
Hedge effectiveness is determined at the inception of the hedge relationship, and through periodic prospective effectiveness assessments to 
ensure that an economic relationship exists between the hedged item and hedging instrument. 

The main sources of hedge ineffectiveness in these hedging relationships is the effect of the currency basis risk on cross-currency interest 
rate swaps which are not reflected in the fair value of the hedged item. No other sources of ineffectiveness emerged from these hedging 
relationships. Any hedge ineffectiveness was recognised immediately in the income statement in the period in which it occurred.

The following table sets out the details of the hedged exposures covered by the Group's fair value hedges:

Hedged item

Hedged exposure

Fixed rate 
bonds (a) 

Interest rate risk
Interest rate & currency rate risk

Financial 
year

FY2022
FY2022

Fixed rate 
bonds (a) 

Interest rate risk
Interest rate & currency rate risk

FY2021
FY2021

(a) Classified as borrowings

Changes in value 
of hedged item 
for calculating 
ineffectiveness 
£m

Changes in value of the 
hedging instrument 
for calculating 
ineffectiveness 
£m

Carrying amount

Accumulated fair value 
adjustments on hedged item

Assets 
£m

Liabilities 
£m

Assets 
£m

Liabilities 
£m

8
21

29

5
4

9

(8)
(20)

(28)

(5)
(7)

(12)

–
–

–

–
–

–

336
252

588

449
256

705

–
–

–

–
–

–

(2)
(5)

(7)

6
16

22

Fair value hedges generated a £1m ineffectiveness in FY2022 (FY2021: £3m) which was recognised in the income statement through 
finance costs.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS 

147

Sensitivity of interest charges to interest rate movements
The Group has exposure to sterling, US dollar and euro interest rates. However, the Group does not have a significant exposure to interest 
rate movements for any individual currency. Based on the composition of net debt and investments at 31 July 2022, and taking into 
consideration all fixed rate borrowings and interest rate swaps in place, a one percentage point (100 basis points) change in average floating 
interest rates for all three currencies would have a £2m impact (FY2021: £5m impact) on the Group’s profit before tax.

Impact of LIBOR transition
The UK Financial Conduct Authority announced on 5 March 2021 that LIBOR benchmark rates will be discontinued after 31 December 2021 
except the majority of US dollar settings which will be discontinued after 30 June 2023. The Group is exposed to interest rate benchmark 
reform on its interest rate swaps and cross-currency interest rate swaps which reference 3-month and 6-month USD LIBOR, have an 
aggregate nominal value of USD 749m, and mature between April 2023 and February 2027. In April 2021 the Group confirmed adherence to 
the ISDA 2020 IBOR Fallbacks Protocol as published by the International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc. (ISDA) on 23 October 2021 
(the Protocol), ensuring that appropriate fallbacks can apply to these derivatives in the event of LIBOR discontinuation.

(c) Financial credit risk
The Group is exposed to credit-related losses in the event of non-performance by counterparties to financial instruments, but does not 
currently expect any counterparties to fail to meet their obligations. Credit risk is mitigated by the Board-approved policy of only placing cash 
deposits with highly rated relationship bank counterparties within counterparty limits established by reference to their Standard & Poor’s 
long-term debt rating. In the normal course of business, the Group operates cash pooling systems, where a legal right of set-off applies.

The maximum credit risk exposure in the event of other parties failing to perform their obligations under financial assets, excluding trade 
and other receivables and derivatives, totals £1,067m at 31 July 2022 (FY2021: £416m).

Cash in AAA liquidity funds
Cash at banks with at least a AA- credit rating
Cash at banks with all other A credit ratings
Cash at other banks
Investments in bank deposits
Other investments

31 July 2022 
£m

31 July 2021 
£m

551
104
397
4
4
7

1,067

116
46
237
6
4
7

416

At 31 July 2022, the maximum exposure with a single bank for deposits and cash was £339m (FY2021: £79m), whilst the maximum mark  
to market exposure with a single bank for derivatives was £15m (FY2021: £26m). These banks have AAA and AA- credit ratings respectively 
(FY2021: Both AAA and AA-).

(d) Liquidity risk

Borrowing facilities
Board policy specifies the maintenance of unused committed credit facilities of at least £300m at all times to ensure that the Group has 
sufficient available funds for operations and planned development. The Group has Revolving Credit Facilities of $800m maturing 1 November 
2024. At the balance sheet date, the Group had the following undrawn credit facilities: 

Expiring after more than two years

31 July 2022 
£m

31 July 2021 
£m

657

575

Cash deposits
As at 31 July 2022, £814m (FY2021: £186m) of cash and cash equivalents was on deposit with various banks of which £558m (FY2021: £116m) 
was in liquidity funds. £4m (FY2021: £4m) of investments comprised bank deposits held to secure liabilities and letters of credit. 

Gross contractual cash-flows for borrowings

Less than one year
Between one and two years
Between two and three years
Between three and four years
Between four and five years
Greater than five years

Total

Borrowings 
(note 18) 
£m

Fair value 
 adjustments 
£m

As at 31 July 2022

Contractual 
 interest 
 payments 
£m

Total 
 contractual 
cash-flows 
£m

Borrowings 
(note 18) 
£m

Fair value 
 adjustments 
£m

As at 31 July 2021

Contractual 
 interest  
payments 
£m

Total 
 contractual 
cash-flows 
£m

(539)
(23)
(20)
(14)
(552)
(24)

(1,172)

2
–
–
–
5
–

7

(17)
(11)
(11)
(11)
(11)
–

(61)

(554)
(34)
(31)
(25)
(558)
(24)

(36)
(823)
(20)
(14)
(10)
(577)

(1,226)

(1,480)

–
(6)
–
–
–
(16)

(22)

(28)
(23)
(11)
(11)
(11)
(11)

(95)

(64)
(852)
(31)
(25)
(21)
(604)

(1,597)

The figures presented in the borrowings column include the non-cash adjustments which are highlighted in the adjacent column. 
The contractual interest reported for borrowings is before the effect of interest rate swaps.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS148

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

Gross contractual cash-flows for derivative financial instruments 

Assets
Less than one year
Greater than one year
Liabilities
Less than one year
Greater than one year

Total

As at 31 July 2022

As at 31 July 2021

Receipts 
£m

Payments 
£m

Net  
cash-flow 
£m

Receipts 
£m

Payments 
£m

Net  
cash-flow 
£m

495 
270 

212 
8 

985 

(521)
(290)

(209)
(8)

(1,028)

(26)
(20)

3 
–

(43)

142
642

220
3

1,007

(144)
(568)

(219)
(2)

(933)

(2)
74

1
1

74

This table above presents the undiscounted future contractual cash-flows for all derivative financial instruments. For this disclosure, cash-
flows in foreign currencies are translated using the spot rates at the balance sheet date. The fair values of these financial instruments are 
presented in note 20.

Gross contractual cash-flows for other financial liabilities
The contractual cash-flows for financial liabilities included in trade and other payables were £474m (FY2021: £351m) due in less than one 
year and £13m (FY2021: £8m) due between one and five years.

20 Derivative financial instruments
The tables below set out the nominal amount and fair value of derivative contracts held by the Group, identifying the derivative contracts 
which qualify for hedge accounting treatment: 

Contract or  
underlying 
nominal  
amount  
£m

Assets 
£m

Liabilities 
£m

Foreign exchange contracts (cash-flow hedges)
Foreign exchange contracts (not hedge accounted)

Total foreign exchange contracts

Cross-currency swaps (fair value and net investment hedges)
Total financial derivatives

Balance sheet entries:

Non-current
Current

Total financial derivatives

Foreign exchange contracts (cash-flow hedges)
Foreign exchange contracts (not hedge accounted)

Total foreign exchange contracts

Cross-currency swaps (fair value and net investment hedges)
Interest rate swaps (fair value hedges)

Total financial derivatives

Balance sheet entries:
Non-current
Current

Total financial derivatives

141
226

367

615
982

269
713

982

Contract or  
underlying 
nominal  
amount  
£m

107
251

358

539
108

1,005

655
350

1,005

3
1

4

–
4

–
4

4

(5)
(2)

(7)

(40)
(47)

(20)
(27)

(47)

Assets 
£m

Liabilities 
£m

1
1

2

72
3

77

75
2

77

(2)
(1)

(3)

–
–

(3)

–
(3)

(3)

At 31 July 2022

Fair value

Net 
£m

(2)
(1)

(3)

(40)
(43)

(20)
(23)

(43)

At 31 July 2021

Fair value

Net 
£m

(1)
–

(1)

72
3

74

75
(1)

74

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

149

The maturity profile, average interest and foreign currency exchange rates of the hedging instruments used in the Group's hedging 
strategies are as follows:

Hedged exposure

Hedging instrument

Maturity at 31 July 2022

Maturity at 31 July 2021

Up to  
one year

One to five 
years

More than  
five years

Up to  
one year

One to five 
years

More than  
five years

Fair value hedges
Interest rate risk

Interest rate swaps 
– USD

Interest rate swaps 
– EUR

 – Notional amount (£m)
 –  Average spread over 
6 month USD LIBOR

 – Notional amount (£m)
 –  Average spread over 
3 month EUR LIBOR

–

– 

336

1.015% 

–

– 

–

– 

Interest rate risk/
Foreign currency risk

Cross-currency swaps 
(EUR:GBP)

 – Notional amount (£m)
 – Average exchange rate
 –  Average spread over 
3 month GBP LIBOR

–
–

– 

254
0.845

1.750% 

Net investment hedges

Foreign currency risk Cross-currency swaps 

 – Notional amount (£m)

(EUR:USD)

 – Average exchange rate

Cross-currency swaps 
(GBP:USD)

 – Notional amount (£m)

 – Average exchange rate

Cash-flow hedges

Foreign currency risk Foreign exchange 

 – Notional amount (£m)

354

1.0773

–

–

–
–

261
1.2534

77

4.1785

28

–

–

8

 6 

 1.5226 

 16 

 1.3273 

 6 

–

–

–

–

–

–

 – Average exchange rate

0.8323

1.1676

contracts (EUR:USD)

Foreign exchange 
contracts (EUR:GBP)

 – Average exchange rate

 – Notional amount (£m)

Foreign exchange 
contracts (EUR:AUD)

 – Notional amount (£m)

 – Average exchange rate

Foreign exchange 
contracts (USD:GBP)

 – Notional amount (£m)

 – Average exchange rate

Foreign exchange 
contracts (GBP:CZK)

 – Notional amount (£m)

 – Average exchange rate

 30.2988 

–

– 

–

– 

–
–

– 

–

–

–
–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–
–

–
–

–
–
–

–

–

–
–

47

108
1.797%

341
1.015%

–
–

–
–

–
–
–

254
0.845
1.750%

310

1.0773

–
–

5

1.1915

1.2205

31

3

0.8996

0.9094

7

1.5832

8

1.3577

6

29.7028

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

229
1.2534

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

At 31 July 2022, the Group had forward foreign exchange contracts with a nominal value of £141m (FY2021: £107m) designated as cash-flow 
hedges. These forward foreign exchange contracts are in relation to sale and purchase of multiple currencies with varying maturities up to 
20 July 2023. The largest single currency pairs are disclosed above and make up 100% of the notional hedged exposure. The notional and fair 
values of these foreign exchange forward derivatives are shown in the nominal amount and fair value of derivative contracts table on page 148.

Accounting for other derivative contracts
Any foreign exchange contracts which are not formally designated as hedges and tested are classified as ‘held for trading’ and not 
hedge accounted. 

Netting
International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) master netting agreements are in place with derivative counterparties except for 
contracts traded on a dedicated international electronic trading platform used for operational foreign exchange hedging. Under these 
agreements if a credit event occurs, all outstanding transactions under the ISDA are terminated and only a single net amount per 
counterparty is payable in settlement of all transactions. The ISDA agreements do not meet the criteria for offsetting, since the offsetting  
is enforceable only if specific events occur in the future, and there is no intention to settle the contracts on a net basis. 

Gross value of assets and liabilities
Related assets and liabilities subject to master netting agreements

Net exposure

Assets 
31 July 2022 
£m

Liabilities 
31 July 2022 
£m

Assets 
31 July 2021 
£m

Liabilities 
31 July 2021 
£m

4
(4)

–

(47)
4

(43)

77
(1)

76

(3)
1

(2)

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

21 Fair value of financial instruments

As at 31 July 2022

Financial assets
Other investments
Other investments
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade and other financial receivables
Derivative financial instruments

Total financial assets

Financial liabilities
Trade and other financial payables
Short-term borrowings
Long-term borrowings
Lease liabilities
Derivative financial instruments

Total financial liabilities

As at 31 July 2021

Financial assets
Other investments
Other investments
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade and other financial receivables
Derivative financial instruments

Total financial assets

Financial liabilities
Trade and other financial payables
Short-term borrowings
Long-term borrowings
Lease liabilities
Derivative financial instruments

Total financial liabilities

150

Basis for 
determining 
fair value

At amortised  
cost 
£m

Notes

At fair value 
through profit 
or loss 
£m

At fair value 
through OCI 
£m

Total  
carrying  
value 
£m

Total  
fair value 
£m

14

14

18

16

20

17

18

18

18

20

A

F

A

B/C

C

B

D

D

E

C

–
–
506
807
–

1,313

(728)
(509)
(538)
(119)
–

(1,894)

4
19
550
–
4

577

–
–
–
–
(47)

(47)

364
8
–
–
–

372

–
–
–
–
–

–

368
27
1,056
807
4

2,262

(728)
(509)
(538)
(119)
(47)

368
27
1,056
807
4

2,262

(728)
(509)
(544)
(119)
(47)

(1,941)

(1,947)

Basis for 
determining 
fair value

At amortised  
cost 
£m

Notes

At fair value 
through profit 
or loss 
£m

At fair value 
through OCI 
£m

Total  
carrying  
value 
£m

Total  
fair value 
£m

14

14

18

16

20

17

18

18

18

20

A

F

A

B/C

C

B

D

D

E

C

–
–
289
689
–

978

(589)
(9)
(1,372)
(121)
–

(2,091)

4
–
116
–
77

197

–
–
–
–
(3)

(3)

–
7
–
–
–

7

–
–
–
–
–

–

4
7
405
689
77

4
7
405
689
77

1,182

1,182

(589)
(9)
(1,372)
(121)
(3)

(2,094)

(589)
(9)
(1,429)
(121)
(3)

(2,151)

The fair value of a financial instrument is the price at which an asset could be exchanged, or a liability settled, between knowledgeable, 
willing parties in an arm's-length transaction. Fair values have been determined with reference to available market information at the 
balance sheet date, using the methodologies described below:
A  Carrying value is assumed to be a reasonable approximation to fair value for all of these assets and liabilities (Level 1 as defined by  

IFRS 13 Fair Value Measurement).

B  Carrying value is assumed to be a reasonable approximation to fair value for all of these assets and liabilities (Level 2 as defined by  

IFRS 13 Fair Value Measurement).

C  Fair values of derivative financial assets and liabilities and trade receivables held to collect or sell are estimated by discounting expected 

future contractual cash-flows using prevailing interest rate curves. Amounts denominated in foreign currencies are valued at the 
exchange rate prevailing at the balance sheet date. These financial instruments are included on the balance sheet at fair value, derived 
from observable market prices (Level 2 as defined by IFRS 13 Fair Value Measurement).

D  Borrowings are carried at amortised cost. Amounts denominated in foreign currencies are valued at the exchange rate prevailing at the 

balance sheet date. The fair value of borrowings is estimated using quoted prices (Level 1 as defined by IFRS 13).

E  Leases are carried at amortised cost. Amounts denominated in foreign currencies are valued at the exchange rate prevailing at the 

balance sheet date. The fair value of the lease contract is estimated by discounting contractual future cash-flows (Level 2 as defined by 
IFRS 13).

F  The fair value of instruments is estimated by using unobservable inputs to the extent that relevant observable inputs are not available. 

Unobservable inputs are developed using the best information available in the circumstances, which may include the Group’s own data, 
taking into account all information about market participation assumptions that is reliably available (Level 3 as defined by IFRS 13).

IFRS 13 defines a three-level valuation hierarchy:

  Level 1 – quoted prices for similar instruments 

Level 2 – directly observable market inputs other than Level 1 inputs 
Level 3 – inputs not based on observable market data

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
 
 
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

151

22 Commitments
At 31 July 2022, commitments, comprising bonds and guarantees arising in the normal course of business, amounted to £234m  
(FY2021: £210m), including pension commitments of £56m (FY2021: £54m). In addition, the Group has committed expenditure on capital 
projects amounting to £15m (FY2021: £4m).

23 Provisions and contingent liabilities

Trading

Non-headline and legacy

Total

At 31 July 2020
Foreign exchange rate movements
Provision charged

Provision released
Unwind of provision discount
Utilisation

Business combinations

At 31 July 2021

Current liabilities
Non-current liabilities

At 31 July 2021

Foreign exchange rate movements
Provision charged
Provision released
Unwind of provision discount
Utilisation

At 31 July 2022

Current liabilities
Non-current liabilities

At 31 July 2022

John Crane, 
Inc. 
litigation 
£m

Titeflex 
Corporation 
litigation 
£m

Other  
£m

231
(12)
5

–
1

(13)

–
212

26
186

212

30
6
–
2

(21)
229

34
195

229

66
(4)
–

(13)
1

(3)

–
47

8
39

47

6
2
–
1

(4)
52

14
38

52

20
(1)
–

–
–

(2)

–
17

2
15

17

2
26
–
–

(2)
43

30
13

43

£m

14
(1)
7

(4)
–

(6)

1
11

10
1

11

1
6
(3)
–

(4)
11

10
1

11

£m

331
(18)
12

(17)
2

(24)

1
287

46
241

287

39
40
(3)
3

(31)
335

88
247

335

The John Crane, Inc. and Titeflex Corporation litigation provisions were the only provisions that were discounted; other provisions have not 
been discounted as the impact would be immaterial.

Trading
The provisions included as trading represent amounts provided for in the ordinary course of business. Trading provisions are charged and 
released through headline profit.

Warranty provision and product liability
At 31 July 2022, the Group had warranty and product liability provisions of £7m (FY2021: £9m). Warranties over the Group’s products 
typically cover periods of between one and three years. Provision is made for the likely cost of after-sales support based on the recent past 
experience of individual businesses.

Commercial disputes and litigation in respect of ongoing business activities
The Group has on occasion been required to take legal action to protect its intellectual property and other rights against infringement.  
It has also had to defend itself against proceedings brought by other parties, including product liability and insurance subrogation claims. 
Provision is made for any expected costs and liabilities in relation to these proceedings where appropriate, although there can be no 
guarantee that such provisions (which may be subject to potentially material revision from time to time) will accurately predict the actual 
costs and liabilities that may be incurred.

Contingent liabilities
In the ordinary course of its business, the Group is subject to commercial disputes and litigation such as government price audits, product 
liability claims, employee disputes and other kinds of lawsuits, and faces different types of legal issues in different jurisdictions. The high 
level of activity in the US, for example, exposes the Group to the likelihood of various types of litigation commonplace in that country, such as 
‘mass tort’ and ‘class action’ litigation, legal challenges to the scope and validity of patents, and product liability and insurance subrogation 
claims. These types of proceedings (or the threat of them) are also used to create pressure to encourage negotiated settlement of disputes. 
Any claim brought against the Group (with or without merit) could be costly to defend. These matters are inherently difficult to quantify. 
In appropriate cases a provision is recognised based on best estimates and management judgement but there can be no guarantee that 
these provisions (which may be subject to potentially material revision from time to time) will result in an accurate prediction of the actual 
costs and liabilities that may be incurred. There are also contingent liabilities in respect of litigation for which no provisions are made.

The Group operates in some markets where the risk of unethical or corrupt behaviour is material and has procedures, including an 
employee ‘Ethics Alertline’, to help it identify potential issues. Such procedures will, from time to time, give rise to internal investigations, 
sometimes conducted with external support, to ensure that the Group properly understands risks and concerns and can take steps both 
to manage immediate issues and to improve its practices and procedures for the future. The Group is not aware of any issues which are 
expected to generate material financial exposures. 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS152

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

Non-headline and legacy

John Crane, Inc.
John Crane, Inc. (JCI) is one of many co-defendants in numerous lawsuits pending in the United States in which plaintiffs are claiming 
damages arising from alleged exposure to, or use of, products previously manufactured which contained asbestos. Until 2006, the awards, 
the related interest and all material defence costs were met directly by insurers. In 2007, JCI secured the commutation of certain insurance 
policies in respect of product liability. Provision is made in respect of the expected costs of defending known and predicted future claims and 
of adverse judgements in relation thereto, to the extent that such costs can be reliably estimated. 

The JCI products generally referred to in these cases consist of industrial sealing product, primarily packing and gaskets. The asbestos was 
encapsulated within these products in such a manner that causes JCI to believe, based on tests conducted on its behalf, that the products 
were safe. JCI ceased manufacturing products containing asbestos in 1985. 

JCI continues to actively monitor the conduct and effect of its current and expected asbestos litigation, including the most efficacious 
presentation of its ‘safe product’ defence, and intends to continue to resist these asbestos claims based upon this defence. The table below 
summarises the JCI claims experience over the last 40 years since the start of this litigation: 

JCI claims experience
Claims against JCI that have been dismissed 
Claims JCI is currently a defendant in
Cumulative final judgements, after appeals, against JCI since 1979
Cumulative value of awards ($’m) since 1979

Year ended 
31 July 2022

Year ended 
31 July 2021

Year ended 
31 July 2020

Year ended 
31 July 2019

Year ended 
31 July 2018

306,000
22,000
149
175

305,000
22,000
149
175

297,000
25,000
149
175

285,000
38,000
144
168

277,000
43,000
140
164

The number of claims outstanding at 31 July 2022 reflected the benefit of 1,000 (FY2021: 8,000) claims being dismissed in the year.

JCI has also incurred significant additional defence costs. The litigation involves claims for a number of allegedly asbestos-related diseases, 
with awards, when made, for mesothelioma tending to be larger than those for the other diseases. JCI’s ability to defend mesothelioma 
cases successfully is, therefore, likely to have a significant impact on its annual aggregate adverse judgement and defence costs.

John Crane, Inc. litigation provision
The provision is based on past history of JCI claims and well-established tables of asbestos-related disease incidence projections. 
The provision is determined using advice from asbestos valuation experts, Bates White LLC. The assumptions made in assessing the 
appropriate level of provision include: the period over which the expenditure can be reliably estimated; the future trend of legal costs; 
the rate of future claims filed; the rate of successful resolution of claims; and the average amount of judgements awarded. The provision 
utilised in the period is lower than previous periods, principally due to court closures and trial delays arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. 
Management believes this reduction in utilisation is temporary until after the effects of the pandemic subside and trial activity returns to pre-
pandemic levels.

Established incidence curves can be used to estimate the likely future pattern of asbestos-related disease. However, JCI’s claims experience 
is also significantly impacted by other factors which influence the US litigation environment. These can include: changing approaches on the 
part of the plaintiffs’ bar; changing attitudes amongst the judiciary at both trial and appellate levels in specific jurisdictions which move the 
balance of risk and opportunity for claimants; and legislative and procedural changes in both the state and federal court systems. 

The projections use a limited time horizon on the basis that Bates White LLC consider that there is substantial uncertainty in the asbestos 
litigation environment. So probable expenditures are not reasonably estimable beyond this time horizon. Asbestos is the longest running 
mass tort litigation in American history and is constantly evolving in ways that cannot be anticipated. JCI's defence strategy also generates 
a significantly different pattern of legal costs and settlement expenses from other defendants. Thus JCI is in an extremely rare position, and 
evidence from other litigation cannot be used to improve the reliability of the projections. A ten-year (FY2021: ten-year) time horizon has been 
used based on past experience regarding significant changes in the litigation environment that have occurred every few years and on the 
amount of time taken in the past for some of those changes to impact the broader asbestos litigation environment.

The rate of future claims filed has been estimated using well-established tables of asbestos incidence projections to determine the likely 
population of potential claimants, and JCI’s past experience to determine what proportion of this population will make a claim against 
JCI. The JCI products generally referred to in claims had industrial and marine applications. As a result, the incidence curve used for 
JCI projections excludes construction workers, and is a composite of the curves that predict asbestos exposure-related disease from 
shipyards and other occupations. This is consistent with JCI’s litigation history. 

The rate of successful resolution of claims and the average amount of any judgements awarded are projected based on the past history of 
JCI claims, since this is the best available evidence, given JCI’s unusual strategy of defending all claims. 

The future trend of legal costs is estimated based on JCI’s past experience, adjusted to reflect the assumed levels of claims and trial activity, 
since the number of trials is a key driver of legal costs. 

John Crane, Inc. litigation insurance recoveries
While JCI has certain excess liability insurance, JCI has met defence costs directly. The calculation of the provision does not take account of 
any potential recoveries from insurers.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

153

John Crane, Inc. litigation provision history
The JCI asbestos litigation provision of £229m (FY2021: £212m) is a discounted pre-tax provision using discount rates, being the risk-free 
rate on US debt instruments for the appropriate period. The deferred tax asset related to this provision is shown within the deferred tax 
balance (note 6).

The JCI asbestos litigation provision has developed over the last five years as follows: 

John Crane, Inc. litigation provision
Gross provision
Discount

Discounted pre-tax provision

Deferred tax

Discounted post-tax provision

Operating profit charge/(credit)
Increased provisions for adverse judgements and legal defence costs
Change in US risk-free rates 

Subtotal – items charged to the provision
Litigation management, legal fees in connection with litigation against insurers and 
defence strategy
Recoveries from insurers

Total operating profit charge/(credit)

Cash-flow
Provision utilisation – legal defence costs and adverse judgements
Litigation management expense
Recoveries from insurers

Net cash outflow

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2020 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2019 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2018 
£m

258
(29)

229
(57)

172

24
(18)

6
1 

–

7

(21)
(1)
–

(22)

220
(8)

212
(54)

158

10
(5)

5
1

(9)

(3)

(13)
–
9

(4)

235
(4)

231
(59)

172

14
16

30
1

(3)

28

(23)
(1)
3

(21)

257
(20)

237
(50)

187

7
8

15
2

(11)

6

(24)
(2)
11

(15)

251
(28)

223
(48)

175

13
(6)

7
3

–

10

(27)
(3)
–

(30)

John Crane, Inc. litigation provision sensitivities 
The provision may be subject to potentially material revision from time to time if new information becomes available as a result of future 
events. There can be no guarantee that the assumptions used to estimate the provision will result in an accurate prediction of the actual 
costs that will be incurred because of the significant uncertainty associated with the future level of asbestos claims and of the costs arising 
out of related litigation. 

John Crane, Inc. statistical reliability of projections over the ten-year time horizon
In order to evaluate the statistical reliability of the projections, a population of outcomes is modelled using randomised verdict outcomes. 
This generated a distribution of outcomes with future spend at the 5th percentile of £203m and future spend at the 95th percentile of £268m 
(FY2021: £191m and £246m, respectively). Statistical analysis of the distribution of these outcomes indicates that there is a 50% probability 
that the total future spend will fall between £239m and £263m (FY2021: between £209m and £230m), compared to the gross provision value 
of £258m (FY2021: £220m).

John Crane, Inc. sensitivity of the projections to changes in the time horizon used
If the asbestos litigation environment becomes more volatile and uncertain, the time horizon over which the provision can be calculated 
may reduce. Conversely, if the environment became more stable, or JCI changed approach and committed to long-term settlement 
arrangements, the time period covered by the provision might be extended. 

The projections use a ten-year time horizon. Reducing the time horizon by one year would reduce the provision by £18m (FY2021: £17m) and 
reducing it by five years would reduce the provision by £97m (FY2021: £93m).

We consider, after obtaining advice from Bates White LLC, that to forecast beyond ten years requires that the litigation environment remains 
largely unchanged with respect to the historical experience used for estimating future asbestos expenditures. Historically, the asbestos 
litigation environment has undergone significant changes more often than every ten years. If one assumed that the asbestos litigation 
environment would remain unchanged for longer and extended the time horizon by one year, it would increase the pre-tax provision 
by £15m (FY2021: £14m) and extending it by five years would increase the pre-tax provision by £56m (FY2021: £58m). However, there 
are also reasonable scenarios that, given certain recent events in the US asbestos litigation environment, would result in no additional 
asbestos litigation for JCI beyond ten years. At this time, how the asbestos litigation environment will evolve beyond ten years is not 
reasonably estimable.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

154

John Crane, Inc. contingent liabilities
Provision has been made for future defence costs and the cost of adverse judgements expected to occur. JCI’s claims experience is 
significantly impacted by other factors which influence the US litigation environment. These can include: changing approaches on the part of 
the plaintiffs’ bar; changing attitudes amongst the judiciary at both trial and appellate levels; and legislative and procedural changes in both 
the state and federal court systems. As a result, whilst the Group anticipates that asbestos litigation will continue beyond the period covered by 
the provision, the uncertainty surrounding the US litigation environment beyond this point is such that the costs cannot be reliably estimated.

Although the methodology used to calculate the JCI litigation provision can in theory be applied to show claims and costs for longer periods, 
the Directors consider, based on advice from Bates White LLC, that the level of uncertainty regarding the factors used in estimating future 
costs is too great to provide for reasonable estimation of the numbers of future claims, the nature of such claims or the cost to resolve them 
for years beyond the ten-year time horizon.

Titeflex Corporation
Titeflex Corporation, a subsidiary of the Group in the Flex-Tek division, has received a number of claims in the US from insurance companies 
seeking recompense on a subrogated basis for the effects of damage allegedly caused by lightning strikes in relation to its flexible gas 
piping product. It has also received product liability claims regarding this product in the US, some in the form of purported class actions. 
Titeflex Corporation believes that its products are a safe and effective means of delivering gas when installed in accordance with the 
manufacturer’s instructions and local and national codes. However, some claims have been settled on an individual basis without admission 
of liability. Equivalent third-party products in the US market-place face similar challenges. 

Titeflex Corporation litigation provision
The continuing progress of claims and the pattern of settlement, together with recent market-place activity, provide sufficient evidence 
to recognise a liability in the accounts. Therefore provision has been made for the costs which the Group is expected to incur in respect of 
future claims to the extent that such costs can be reliably estimated. Titeflex Corporation sells flexible gas piping with extensive installation 
and safety guidance designed to assure the safety of the product and minimise the risk of damage associated with lightning strikes. 

The assumptions made in assessing the appropriate level of provision, which are based on past experience, include: the period over which 
expenditure can be reliably estimated; the number of future settlements; the average amount of settlements; and the impact of statutes of 
repose and safe installation initiatives on the expected number of future claims. The assumptions relating to the number of future settlements 
exclude the use of recent claims history due to the uncertain impact that the COVID-19 lockdown has had on the number of claims.

The provision of £52m (FY2021: £47m) is a discounted pre-tax provision using discount rates, being the risk-free rate on US debt instruments 
for the appropriate period. The deferred tax asset related to this provision is shown within the deferred tax balance (note 6).

Gross provision
Discount

Discounted pre-tax provision
Deferred tax

Discounted post-tax provision

31 July 2022 
£m

31 July 2021 
£m

87
(35)

52
(12)

40

69
(22)

47
(11)

36

Titeflex Corporation litigation provision history
A charge of £2m (FY2021: £13m credit) has been recognised by Titeflex Corporation in respect of changes to the estimated cost of future 
claims from insurance companies seeking recompense for damage allegedly caused by lightning strikes. The higher gross provision value 
has been driven by foreign exchange rate movements and an increase in the average cost per claim. The increase in the discount factor 
derives from increasing US dollar discount rates.

Titeflex Corporation litigation provision sensitivities
The significant uncertainty associated with the future level of claims and of the costs arising out of related litigation means that there can 
be no guarantee that the assumptions used to estimate the provision will result in an accurate prediction of the actual costs that will be 
incurred. Therefore the provision may be subject to potentially material revision from time to time, if new information becomes available as a 
result of future events.

The projections incorporate a long-term assumption regarding the impact of safe installation initiatives on the level of future claims. If the 
assumed annual benefit of bonding and grounding initiatives were 0.5% higher, the provision would be £3m (FY2021: £4m) lower, and if the 
benefit were 0.5% lower, the provision would be £4m (FY2021: £4m) higher. 

The projections use assumptions of future claims that are based on both the number of future settlements and the average amount of 
those settlements. If the assumed average number of future settlements increased 10%, the provision would rise by £5m (FY2021: £4m), 
with an equivalent fall for a reduction of 10%. If the assumed amount of those settlements increased 10%, the provision would rise by £4m 
(FY2021: £3m), also with an equivalent fall for a reduction of 10%.

Other non-headline and legacy provisions
Non-headline provisions comprise all provisions that were disclosed as non-headline items when they were charged to the consolidated 
income statement. Legacy provisions comprise non-material provisions relating to former business activities and discontinued operations 
and properties no longer used by Smiths.

These non-material provisions include non-headline reorganisation, disposal indemnities, litigation and arbitration in respect of old 
products and discontinued business activities, which includes claims received in connection with the disposal of Smiths Medical in the year. 
Provision is made for the best estimate of the expected expenditure related to the defence and/or resolution of such matters. There is an 
inherent risk in legal proceedings that the outcome may be unfavourable to the Group, and as such there can be no guarantee that such 
provisions (which may be subject to potentially material revision from time to time) will be sufficient.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

155

Reorganisation
At 31 July 2022, there were reorganisation provisions of £1m (FY2021: £2m) relating to the various restructuring programmes that are 
expected to be utilised in the next 18 months.

Property
At 31 July 2022, there were provisions of £10m (FY2021: £11m) related to actual and potential environmental issues for sites currently or 
previously occupied by Smiths operations.

24 Share capital

Ordinary shares of 37.5p each

Total share capital at 31 July 2020
Issue of new equity shares – exercise of share options

Total share capital at 31 July 2021

Issue of new equity shares – exercise of share options
Share buybacks

Total share capital at 31 July 2022

Number of shares

Average number  
of shares

Issued  
capital 
£m

Consideration 
£m

396,211,180

396,193,310

165,934

157,276

396,377,114

396,350,586

131,942

125,354

(34,152,897)

(9,797,729)

362,356,159

386,678,211

149

–

149

–

(13)

136

2

2

(511)

Share capital structure
As at 31 July 2022, the Company’s issued share capital was 362,356,159 ordinary shares with a nominal value of 37.5p per share. All of the 
issued share capital was in free issue and all issued shares are fully paid.

The Company’s ordinary shares are listed and admitted to trading on the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange. The Company has an 
American Depositary Receipt (ADR) programme and one ADR equates to one ordinary share. As at 31 July 2022, 4,274,704 ordinary shares 
were held by the nominee of the programme in respect of the same number of ADRs in issue.

The holders of ordinary shares are entitled to receive the Company’s Reports and Accounts, to attend and speak at General Meetings of 
the Company, to appoint proxies and to exercise voting rights. None of the ordinary shares carry any special rights with regard to control 
of the Company or distributions made by the Company. 

There are no known agreements relating to, or restrictions on, voting rights attached to the ordinary shares (other than the 48 hour cut-off 
for casting proxy votes prior to a General Meeting). There are no restrictions on the transfer of shares, and there is no requirement to obtain 
approval for a share transfer. There are no known arrangements under which financial rights are held by a person other than the holder of 
the ordinary shares. There are no known limitations on the holding of shares.

Powers of Directors
The Directors are authorised to issue and allot shares and to buy back shares subject to receiving shareholder approval at the General 
Meeting. Such authorities were granted by shareholders at the 2021 Annual General Meeting and the buy back authority was superseded by 
the shareholder authority provided at the General Meeting held in November 2021. At the 2022 AGM, it will be proposed that the Directors be 
granted new authorities to allot and buy back shares.

Share buybacks
As at 16 September 2022 (the latest practicable date for inclusion in this report), the Company had an unexpired authority to repurchase 
ordinary shares up to a maximum of 59m ordinary shares (FY2021: 40m). As at 16 September 2022, the Company did not hold any shares in 
treasury. Any ordinary shares purchased may be cancelled or held in treasury.

In connection with the sale of Smiths Medical to ICU Medical, Inc. (see note 27 for details), and in the light of our strong balance sheet 
and cash-flows, the Group announced that it intended to return an amount representing 55% of the initial cash proceeds (equating to an 
aggregate purchase price of up to $1bn or £742m) to shareholders in the form of a Share Buyback Programme. All shares purchased under 
the Programme will be cancelled. This Programme was initiated on 19 November 2021 as announced to the London Stock Exchange on 
11 November 2021 and following shareholder approval at the General Meeting held on 17 November 2021. 

A total number of 34,281,929 ordinary shares of 37.5 pence each were repurchased during the period, for a total consideration of 
£512,796,999, of which 129,032 shares with a value of £1,972,602 were yet to settle and be cancelled. These 34,281,929 shares represented 
9.46% of the called up ordinary share capital as at 31 July 2022. A further 3,361,599 ordinary shares have been repurchased during the 
period of 1 August 2022 to 16 September 2022. All repurchased shares have been cancelled with the exception of 128,919 shares that were 
yet to settle and be cancelled as at 16 September 2022. Since 1 August 2022, the number of shares in issue has reduced by 3,361,712 as at 
16 September 2022.

Employment share schemes
Shares acquired through Company share schemes and plans rank pari passu with the shares in issue and have no special rights. 
The Company operates an Employee Benefit Trust, with an independent trustee, to hold shares pending employees becoming entitled to 
them under the Company’s share schemes and plans. On 31 July 2022, the trust held 618,662 (FY2021: 326,364) ordinary shares in the 
Company. The trust waived its dividend entitlement on its holding during the year, and the trust abstains from voting any shares held at 
General Meetings.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

25 Dividends
The following dividends were declared and paid in the period:

Ordinary final dividend of 26.0p (FY2021: 24.0p) paid 19 November 2021
Ordinary delayed interim dividend of nil (FY2021: 11.0p) paid 19 November 2021

Ordinary interim dividend of 12.3p (FY2021: 11.7p) paid 13 May 2022

156

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

103

–
47

150

94
44

47

185

In the current year a total dividend of 38.3p has been paid, comprising a final dividend of 26.0p paid in respect of FY2021 and an interim 
dividend of 12.3p paid in respect of FY2022. In the prior year a total dividend of 46.7p was paid, comprising a delayed interim dividend of 11.0p 
and a final dividend of 24.0p paid in respect of FY2020 and an interim dividend of 11.7p paid in respect of FY2021. 

The final dividend for the year ended 31 July 2022 of 27.3p per share was recommended by the Board on 22 September 2022 and will be paid 
to shareholders on 18 November 2022, subject to approval by the shareholders. This dividend is payable to all shareholders on the register of 
members at 6.00pm on 21 October 2022 (the record date). 

Waiver of dividends
The following waived all dividends payable in the year, and all future dividends, on their shareholdings in the Company:
 – Numis Nominees Limited (Smiths Industries Employee Share Trust)

26 Reserves
Retained earnings include the value of Smiths Group plc shares held by the Smiths Industries Employee Benefit Trust. In the year the 
Company issued nil (FY2021: 800,606) shares to the Trust, and the Trust purchased 1,069,998 shares (FY2021: 1,126,970 shares) in the market 
for a consideration of £16m (FY2021: £16m). At 31 July 2022, the Trust held 618,662 (FY2021: 326,364) ordinary shares.

Other reserves comprise the capital redemption reserve, revaluation reserve and merger reserve, which arose from share repurchases, 
revaluations of property, plant and equipment, and merger accounting for business combinations before the adoption of IFRS, respectively. 

Capital management
Capital employed comprises total equity adjusted for goodwill recognised directly in reserves, net retirement benefit-related assets and 
liabilities, net litigation provisions relating to non-headline items and net debt. The efficiency of the allocation of capital to the divisions is 
monitored through the return on capital employed (ROCE). This ratio is calculated over a rolling 12-month period and is the percentage that 
headline operating profit comprises of monthly average capital employed. In FY2022 ROCE was 14.2% (FY2021: 13.2%); see note 29.

Capital structure is based on the Directors’ judgement of the balance required to maintain flexibility, whilst achieving an efficient cost 
of capital. 

The FY2022 ratio of net debt to headline EBITDA of 0.3 (FY2021: 1.6) is within the Group’s stated policy of 2.0 or less over the medium term. 
The Group’s robust balance sheet and record of strong cash generation are more than able to fund immediate investment needs and legacy 
obligations. See note 29 for the definition of headline EBITDA and the calculation of this ratio. 

As part of its capital management, the Group maintains a solid investment grade credit rating to ensure access to the widest possible 
sources of financing and to optimise the resulting cost of capital. At 31 July 2022, the Group had a credit rating of BBB+/Baa2 (FY2021: BBB+/
Baa2) with Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s respectively. 

The Board has a progressive dividend policy for future pay-outs, with the aim of increasing dividends in line with the long-term underlying 
growth in earnings. In setting the level of dividend payments, the Board will take into account prevailing economic conditions and future 
investment plans, along with the objective to maintain a minimum dividend cover of at least two times. 

Hedge reserve
The hedge reserve on the balance sheet records the cumulative gain or loss on designated hedging instruments, and comprises:

Net investment hedge reserve (net of £8m of deferred tax (FY2021: £8m)
Cash-flow hedge reserve

31 July 2022 
£m

31 July 2021 
£m

(205)
3
(202)

(230)
2
(228)

See transactional currency exposure risk management disclosures in note 19 for additional details of cash-flow hedges, and translational 
currency exposure risk management disclosure also in note 19 for additional details of net investment hedges.

Non-controlling interest
The Group has recorded non-controlling interests of £22m (FY2021: £21m), of which the most significant balance is in John Crane Japan Inc., 
which represented £20m (FY2021: £20m) of the total non-controlling interests. 

The non-controlling interest in John Crane Japan Inc. represents a 30% interest. John Crane Japan Inc. generated operating profits of £5m 
in the period (FY2021: £5m), and cash inflows from operating activities of £5m (FY2021: £6m). It paid dividends of £1m (FY2021: £2m) and tax 
of £1m (FY2021: £3m). At 31 July 2022, the company contributed £57m (FY2021: £57m) of net assets to the Group. 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS 

157

27 Discontinued operations and businesses held for sale
Following the Board decision in July 2021 to pursue a sale process, the Smiths Medical business was classified as a discontinued operation 
and a business held for sale. On 8 September 2021, the Group announced that it had agreed the sale of Smiths Medical to ICU Medical, Inc., 
and the approval of Smiths shareholders was received at the General Meeting on 17 November 2021.

The sale was completed on 6 January 2022 and the results of the discontinued operation and the effect of the disposal on the financial 
position of the Group were as follows:

Discontinued operations
The financial performance of the Smiths Medical business in the current and prior years is presented below:

Revenue

 Direct materials, labour, production and distribution overheads

 Selling costs

 Administrative expenses
Operating costs

Operating profit
Finance costs

Gain on sale of discontinued operation

Taxation

Profit from discontinued operations 

Year ended 31 July 2022

Year ended 31 July 2021

Headline 
£m

Non-headline 
(note 3) 
£m

356

(193)

(46)

(51)

(290)

66

(1)

–
(16)

49

–

–

–

(47)

(47)

(47)

(22)

1,036
6

973

Total 
£m

356

(193)

(46)

(98)

(337)

19

(23)

1,036
(10)

1,022

Headline 
£m

Non-headline 
(note 3) 
£m

849

(385)

(117)

(170)

(672)

177

(1)

–
(42)

134

–

–

–

(79)

(79)

(79)

50

–
23

(6)

Total 
£m

849

(385)

(117)

(249)

(751)

98

49

–
(19)

128

Interest capitalised as part of the costs of Smiths Medical development projects amounted to £1m (FY2021: £3m). £nil (FY2021: £1m) of tax 
relief has been recognised as current tax relief in the period. The gain on sale of the Smiths Medical discontinued operations qualified for the 
Substantial Shareholding Exemption and consequently was not subject to corporation tax.

Additional segmental information for discontinued operations
Headline operating profit for discontinued operations was stated after charging share-based payments £2m (FY2021: £1m). 

Revenue for the Smiths Medical discontinued operation is analysed by the following product lines: Infusion Systems £116m (FY2021: £303m), 
Vascular Access £134m (FY2021: £272m) and Vital Care/Other £106m (FY2021: £274m). 

Revenue by destination for the Smiths Medical for discontinued operations is analysed as follows: Americas £176m (FY2021: £456m), Europe, 
Middle East & Africa £91m (FY2021: £228m), and Asia-Pacific £89m (FY2021: £165m). Revenue by destination has been selected as the basis 
for attributing revenue to geographical areas as this is the attribution used by management to review the performance of the business.

Revenue by destination attributable to the United Kingdom was £12m (FY2021: £26m). Revenue earned in the United States of America was 
material totalling £161m (FY2021: £411m). 

Cash-flow from discontinued operations
Cash-flows from discontinued operations included in the consolidated cash-flow statement are as follows:

Net cash inflow from operating activities
Net cash-flow used in investing activities
Net cash-flow used in financing activities

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

Opening cash and cash equivalents in disposal group
Foreign exchange movements 

Cash and cash equivalents disposed of
Cash and cash equivalents at close of period

31 July 2022 
£m

31 July 2021 
represented* 
£m

47
(17)
(14)

16

48
(7)

(57)
–

163
(67)
(68)

28

20
–

–
48

*  £15m of intra-group royalty charges paid by discontinued operations to continuing operations in FY2021, that were previously netted down, have been represented on a gross up basis within 

net cash inflow from operating activities and net cash-flow used in financing activities, as this represents a complete view of the operating cash flows attributable to Smiths Medical.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

Effect of disposal on the financial position of the Group

Intangible assets
Property, plant and equipment
Right of use assets
Inventories
Deferred tax assets
Current tax receivable
Trade and other receivables
Cash and cash equivalents
Financial derivatives
Lease liabilities
Trade and other payables
Current tax payable
Deferred tax liabilities
Retirement benefit obligations
Provisions

Net assets disposed of

Consideration received:
Cash and cash equivalents
Transaction costs

Cash and cash equivalents, net of transaction costs
ICU Medical, Inc shares
Deferred contingent consideration – contingent on ICU Medical, Inc future share price:
 – Fair value at date of disposal
 – Movement in fair value to 31 July 2022

Separation expenses – arising from contractual and commercial obligations due to the separation recognised in year

Gain on sale before reclassification of foreign currency translation reserve
Exchange movements recycled to the income statement
Cash-flow hedge reserve recycled to the income statement

Gain on sale of discontinued operation

Net cash inflow arising on disposal:
Consideration received in cash and cash equivalents
Transaction costs and separation expenses paid in period 
Less cash and cash equivalents disposed of

158

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

695
170
64
166
20
3
110
57
4
(41)
(167)
(13)
(56)
(5)
(39)

968

1,421
(31)

1,390
426

30
(11)
19
(32)

835
196
5

1,036

1,421
(33)
(57)

1,331

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

28 Cash-flow

Cash-flow from operating activities

Operating profit 

– continuing operations
– discontinued operations

Amortisation of intangible assets
Impairment of intangible assets
Impairment of tangible assets
Impairment of investment within discontinued operations
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment
Depreciation of right of use assets
(Gain)/loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment
Share-based payment expense
Retirement benefits**
Distribution from trading investment
Recycling of cash-flow hedge reserve
Decrease/(increase) in inventories
Decrease/(increase) in trade and other receivables
Increase/(decrease) in trade and other payables
Increase/(decrease) in provisions

Cash generated from operations
Interest paid
Interest received
Tax paid

Net cash inflow from operating activities

 – continuing operations*
 – discontinued operations*

159

Year ended 31 July 2022

Year ended 31 July 2021 represented*

Headline 
£m

Non-headline 
£m

417 
66 
10 
–
–
–
38 
30 
(2)
13 
5 
–
–
(173)
(87)
131 
(1)

447 
(51)
13 
(88)

321 

274 
47 

(300)
(47)
51 
4 
–
14 
–
–
–
–
207 
–
–
4 
4 
(2)
22 

(43)
–
1 
–

(42)

(42)
–

Total 
£m

117 
19 
61 
4 
–
14 
38 
30 
(2)
13 
212 
–
–
(169)
(83)
129 
21 

404 
(51)
14 
(88)

279 

232 
47 

Headline 
£m

Non-headline 
£m

372
177
14
1
–
–
39
32
1
13
6
5
(5)
62
(14)
46
(4)

745
(40)
2
(109)

598

430
168

(46)
(79)
53
52
6
–
1
–
–
–
(23)
–
–
4
4
(10)
(26)

(64)
–
1
–

(63)

(58)
(5)

Total 
£m

326
98
67
53
6
–
40
32
1
13
(17)
5
(5)
66
(10)
36
(30)

681
(40)
3
(109)

535

372
163

*   £15m of intra-group royalty charges paid by discontinued operations to continuing operations in FY2021 have been represented as cash inflows from discontinued operations, as this 

represents a complete view of the operating cash flows attributable to Smiths Medical.

* * The retirement benefits non-headline operating activities principally relate to employer contributions to legacy defined benefit and post-retirement healthcare plans.

Headline cash measures – continuing operations
The Group measure of headline operating cash excludes interest and tax, and includes capital expenditure supporting organic growth. 
The Group uses operating cash-flow for the calculation of cash conversion and free cash-flow for management of capital purposes.  
See note 29 for additional details.

The table below reconciles the Group’s net cash-flow from operating activities to headline operating cash-flow and free cash-flow:

Year ended 31 July 2022

Year ended 31 July 2021

Net cash inflow from operating activities

Include:
Expenditure on capitalised development, other intangible assets  
and property, plant and equipment
Repayment of lease liabilities
Disposals of property, plant and equipment 
Investment in financial assets relating to operating activities and 
pensions financing outstanding at the balance sheet date

Free cash-flow

Exclude:
Investment in financial assets relating to operating activities and 
pensions financing outstanding at the balance sheet date
Repayment of lease liabilities
Interest paid
Interest received
Tax paid

Operating cash-flow

Headline 
£m

Non-headline 
£m

274 

(42)

(71)
(34)
3 

–

–
34 
46 
(13)
79 

318 

–
–
–

–

–
–
–
–
–

Total 
£m

232 

(71)
(34)
3 

–

130 

–
34 
46 
(13)
79 

Headline 
£m

Non-headline 
£m

430 

(58)

(62)
(33)
–

7 

(7)
33 
24 
(2)
96 

–
–
–

–

–
–
–
–
–

Total 
£m

372 

(62)
(33)
–

7 

284

(7)
33 
24 
(2)
96 

(42)

276 

486 

(58)

428 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS160

NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

Headline cash conversion
Headline operating cash conversion for continuing operations is calculated as follows:

Headline operating profit
Headline operating cash-flow

Headline operating cash conversion

Year ended 31 July 2022

Year ended 31 July 2021

As reported 
£m

Restructuring 
costs 
£m

Pro-forma 
excluding 
restructuring 
costs 
£m

As reported 
£m

Restructuring 
costs 
£m

417
318

76%

–
14

417
332

80%

372
486

130%

21
24

Pro-forma 
excluding 
restructuring 
costs 
£m

393
510

129%

Reconciliation of free cash-flow to net movement in cash and cash equivalents:

Free cash-flow
Investment in financial assets and acquisition of businesses
Disposal of businesses and discontinued operations
Other net cash-flows used in financing activities (note: repayment of lease liabilities is included in free cash-flow)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents for discontinued operations

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
£m

130
–
1,331
(937)
16

540

284
(83)
–
(138)
28

91

29 Alternative performance measures and key performance indicators
The Group uses several alternative performance measures (‘APMs’) in order to provide additional useful information on underlying 
trends and the performance and position of the Group. APMs are non-GAAP and not defined by IFRS; therefore, they may not be directly 
comparable with other companies’ APMs and should not be considered a substitute for IFRS measures.

The Group uses these measures, which are common across the industry, for planning and reporting purposes, to enhance the comparability 
of information between reporting periods and business units. The measures are also used in discussions with the investment analyst 
community and by credit rating agencies.

We have identified and defined the following key measures which are used within the business by management to assess the performance of 
the Group’s businesses:

APM term

Capital employed

Capital expenditure

Definition and purpose

Capital employed is a non-statutory measure of invested resources. It comprises statutory net assets and is adjusted as 
follows:
- to add goodwill recognised directly in reserves in respect of subsidiaries acquired before 1 August 1998;
- to eliminate the Group's investment in ICU Medical, Inc equity and deferred consideration contingent on the future 
   share price performance of ICU Medical, Inc; and 
- to eliminate post-retirement benefit assets and liabilities and non-headline litigation provisions related to John Crane, 
   Inc. and Titeflex Corporation, both net of deferred tax, and net debt. 
It is used to monitor capital allocation within the Group. See below for a reconciliation from net assets to capital 
employed.

Comprises additions to property, plant and equipment, capitalised development and other intangible assets, excluding 
assets acquired through business combinations, see note 1 for an analysis of capital expenditure. This measure 
quantifies the level of capital investment into ongoing operations.

Divisional headline 
operating profit ('DHOP')

DHOP comprises divisional earnings before central costs, finance costs and taxation. DHOP is used to monitor divisional 
performance. A reconciliation of DHOP to operating profit is shown in note 1. 

Free cash-flow

Gross debt

Headline

Headline EBITDA

Headline EBITDA before
restructuring costs

Free cash-flow is calculated by adjusting the net cash inflow from operating activities to include capital expenditure, 
the repayment of lease liabilities, the proceeds from the disposal of property, plant and equipment and the investment 
in financial assets relating to operating activities and pensions financing outstanding at the balance sheet date. 
The measure shows cash generated by the Group before discretionary expenditure on acquisitions and returns to 
shareholders. A reconciliation of free cash-flow is shown in note 28.

Gross debt is total borrowings (bank, bonds and lease liabilities). It is used to provide an indication of the Group's overall 
level of indebtedness. See note 18 for an analysis of gross debt.

The Group has defined a 'headline' measure of performance that excludes material non-recurring items or items 
considered non-operational/trading in nature. Items excluded from headline are referred to as non-headline items. This 
measure is used by the Group to measure and monitor performance excluding material non-recurring items or items 
considered non-operational. See note 3 for an analysis of non-headline items.

EBITDA is a widely used profit measure, not defined by IFRS, being earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation and 
amortisation. Following the completion of the sale of Smiths Medical, headline EBITDA for FY2022 has been presented 
on a continuing operations basis. A reconciliation of headline operating profit to headline EBITDA is shown in the note 
below.

Headline EBITDA, as defined above, is adjusted to exclude restructuring costs from the Group’s strategic restructuring 
programme which commenced in FY2020. Following the completion of the sale of Smiths Medical, headline EBITDA 
before restructuring costs for FY2022 has been presented on a continuing operations basis. A reconciliation of headline 
EBITDA to headline EBITDA before restructuring costs and write-downs is shown in the note below.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

161

Headline operating profit 
excluding restructuring

Headline operating profit is adjusted for strategic restructuring programme costs and write-downs. See note 2 for a 
reconciliation. This measure of profitability is used by the Group to measure and monitor performance.

Net debt

Non-headline

Operating cash-flow

Net debt is total borrowings (bank, bonds and lease liabilities) less cash balances and derivatives used to manage the 
interest rate risk and currency profile of the debt. This measure is used to provide an indication of the Group's overall level 
of indebtedness and is widely used by investors and credit rating agencies. See note 18 for an analysis of net cash/(debt). 

The Group has defined a 'headline' measure of performance that excludes material non-recurring items or items 
considered non-operational/trading in nature. Items excluded from headline are referred to as non-headline items. This 
is used by the Group to measure and monitor material non-recurring items or items considered non-operational. See 
note 3 for an analysis of non-headline items.

Comprises free cash-flow and excludes cash-flows relating to the repayment of lease liabilities, interest and taxation. 
The measure shows how cash is generated from operations in the Group. A reconciliation of operating cash-flow is 
shown in note 28.

Operating profit

Operating profit is earnings before finance costs and tax. A reconciliation of operating profit to profit before tax is shown on 
the income statement on page 103. This common measure is used by the Group to measure and monitor performance.

Return on capital employed 
('ROCE')

Smiths ROCE is calculated over a rolling 12-month period and is the percentage that headline operating profit 
represents of the monthly average capital employed on a rolling 12-month basis. This measure of return on invested 
resources is used to monitor performance and capital allocation within the Group. See below for Group ROCE and note 1 
for divisional headline operating profit and divisional capital employed. 

The key performance indicators ('KPIs') used by management to assess the performance of the Group’s businesses are as follows:

KPI term

Definition and purpose

Dividend cover – headline Dividend cover is the ratio of headline earnings per share (see note 5) to dividend per share (see note 25). This commonly 

used measure indicates the number of times the dividend in a financial year is covered by headline earnings.

Earnings per share ('EPS') 
growth

EPS growth is the growth in headline basic EPS (see note 5), on a reported basis. EPS growth is used to measure and 
monitor performance.

Free cash-flow (as a % of 
operating profit)

This measure is defined as free cash-flow divided by headline operating profit averaged over a three-year performance 
period. This cash generation measure is used by the Group as a performance measure for remuneration purposes. 

Greenhouse Gas Emissions 
(GHG) reduction

GHG reduction is calculated as the percentage change in normalised Scope 1 & 2 GHG emissions. Normalised is 
calculated as tCO2e per £million of revenue. This measure is used to monitor environmental performance.

Gross Vitality

Gross Vitality is calculated as the percentage of revenue derived from new products and services launched in the 
last five years. This measure is used to monitor the effectiveness of the Group's new product development and 
commercialisation.

My Say engagement score The overall score in our My Say employee engagement survey. The bi-annual survey is undertaken Group-wide. This 

measure is used by the Group to monitor employee engagement.

Operating cash conversion Comprises headline operating cash-flow, excluding restructuring costs, as a percentage of headline operating profit.

This measure is used to show the proportion of headline operating profit converted into cash-flow from operations 
before investment, finance costs, non-headline items and taxation. The calculation is shown in note 28.

Operating profit margin

Operating profit margin is calculated by dividing headline operating profit by revenue. This measure is used to monitor 
the Group’s ability to drive profitable growth and control costs.

Organic growth

Organic growth adjusts the movement in headline performance to exclude the impact of foreign exchange, restructuring 
costs and acquisitions. Organic growth is used by the Group to aid comparability when monitoring performance.

Organic revenue growth 
(remuneration)

Percentage of senior 
leadership positions taken 
by females

R&D cash costs as a  
% of sales

Ratio of capital expenditure
to depreciation and
amortisation

Recordable Incident Rate 
(RIR)

Organic revenue growth (remuneration) is compounded annualised growth in revenue calculated on an underlying 
basis.  The measure used for remuneration differs from organic revenue growth in that it is calculated on a compounded 
annualised basis. This measure has historically been used by the Group for aligning remuneration with business 
performance. 

Percentage of senior leadership positions taken by females is calculated as the percentage of senior leadership roles 
(G14+ group) held by females. This measure is used by the Group to monitor diversity performance.

This measure is defined as the cash cost of research and development activities as a percentage of revenue. Innovation 
is an important driver of sustainable growth for the Group and this measures our investment in research and 
development to drive innovation.

Represents the amount of capital expenditure as a proportion of the depreciation and amortisation charge for the period. 
This measure shows the level of reinvestment into operations. 

Recordable Incident Rate is calculated as the number of recordable incidents – where an incident requires medical 
attention beyond first aid – per 100 colleagues, per year across Smiths. This measure is used by the Group to monitor 
health and safety performance.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

162

Capital employed
Capital employed is a non-statutory measure of invested resources. It comprises statutory net assets adjusted to add goodwill recognised 
directly in reserves in respect of subsidiaries acquired before 1 August 1998 of £478m (FY2021: £787m), to eliminate the Group's investment 
in ICU Medical, Inc equity and deferred consideration contingent on the future share price performance of ICU Medical, Inc and to eliminate 
post-retirement benefit assets and liabilities and non-headline litigation provisions related to John Crane, Inc. and Titeflex Corporation, both 
net of related tax, and net debt. 

Net assets
Adjust for: 
Goodwill recognised directly in reserves
Retirement benefit assets and obligations
Tax related to retirement benefit assets and obligations
John Crane, Inc. litigation provisions and related tax
Titeflex Corporation litigation provisions and related tax
Investment in ICU Medical, Inc equity
Deferred contingent consideration
Net debt (FY2021: includes £4m of net cash in discontinued operations)

Capital employed

Return on capital employed ('ROCE')

Notes

31 July 2022 
£m

31 July 2021 
£m

2,721

2,423

8

23

23

14

14

18

478
(194)
57
172
40
(364)
(19)
150

3,041

787
(413)
108
158
36
–
–
1,018

4,117

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
represented* 
£m

Notes

Headline operating profit for previous 12 months – continuing operations
Restructuring costs

Headline operating profit before restructuring costs – continuing operations

Average capital employed – continuing operations (excluding investment in ICU Medical, Inc equity)

1

ROCE

417
–

417

2,940

14.2%

372
21

393

2,830

13.9%

*   Following the completion of the sale of Smiths Medical, ROCE for 31 July 2021 has been represented to exclude restructuring costs and discontinued operations from headline operating 

profit and average capital employed. The 31 July 2021 figures have been represented to aid the period on period comparability for this forward-looking measure.

Credit metrics
Smiths Group monitors the ratio of net debt to headline EBITDA as part of its management of credit ratings; see note 26 for details. This ratio 
is presented for the whole Group, including discontinued operations, and is calculated as follows:

Headline earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (headline EBITDA)

Headline operating profit
Headline operating profit of discontinued operations
Exclude: 
– depreciation of property, plant and equipment
– depreciation of right of use assets
– amortisation and impairment of development costs
– amortisation of software, patents and intellectual property

Headline EBITDA
Add back: restructuring costs and write-downs (FY2021 comparative includes £9m in discontinued operations)

Headline EBITDA before restructuring costs and write-downs

Ratio of net debt to headline EBITDA – total Group including discontinued operations

Headline EBITDA
Net debt (FY2021 comparative includes £4m of net cash in discontinued operations)

Ratio of net debt to headline EBITDA

*   The figures for the comparative period in the credit metrics tables above include discontinued operations. 

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
Continuing 
operations 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
Total 
operations* 
£m

Notes

27

12

13

10

10

2

417
–

38
30
3
7

495
–

495

372
177

40
32
7
7

635
30

665

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
Continuing 
operations 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
Total 
operations* 
£m

495
150

0.3

635
1,018

1.6

Notes

18

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSNOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

163

30 Post Balance Sheet Events
Details of the proposed final dividend announced since the end of the reporting period are given in note 25.

31 Audit exemption taken for subsidiaries
The following subsidiaries are exempt from the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 relating to the audit of individual accounts by virtue 
of Section 479A of that Act for FY2022.

Company name

EIS Group Plc

Company 

number Company name

61407 Smiths Detection Investments Limited

Flexibox International Limited

394688 Smiths Finance Limited

Flex-Tek Group Limited

Graseby Limited

SI Properties Limited

SITI 1 Limited

11545405 Smiths Group Finance EU Limited

894638 Smiths Group Finance US Limited

160881 Smiths Group Innovation Limited

4257042 Smiths Interconnect Group Limited

Smiths Detection Group Limited

5138140 Smiths Pensions Limited

Company 
number

5146644

7888063

10440573

10440608

10953689

6641403

2197444

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSUNAUDITED GROUP FINANCIAL RECORD 2018-2022

Unaudited Group financial record 2018-2022
The headline income statement metrics shown below for the year ended 31 July 2018 has been represented to show the results of Smiths 
Medical as a discontinued operation. 

164

Income statement metrics – headline*
Continuing operations

Revenue
Headline operating profit
Headline profit before tax

Discontinued operations

Revenue
Headline operating profit
Headline profit before tax

Income statement metrics – statutory**
Revenue
Operating profit 
Profit before taxation 

Profit for the year

Balance sheet metrics***
Net debt
Shareholders’ equity
Average capital employed

Ratios***
Headline operating profit: revenue (%) 
Headline effective tax rate (%)
Return on capital employed (%)
Return on shareholders’ funds (%)

Cash-flow metrics***
Headline operating cash 
Headline operating cash conversion (%)

Free cash-flow 
Free cash-flow per share (p)

Earnings per share***
Headline earnings per share (p) 

Dividends and dividend cover***
Pence per share
Headline dividend cover 

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2021
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2020 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2019 
£m

Year ended 
31 July 2018 
£m

2,566
417
376

356
66
65

2,566
117
103

1,035

2,406
372
332

849
177
176

2,406
326
240

285

2,548
327
278

918
184
180

2,548
241
133

267

2,498
427
376

874
147
144

2,498
326
304

227

(150)
2,699
2,940

(1,018)
2,402
4,165

(1,141)
2,373
4,315

(1,197)
2,360
3,972

16.5
27.2
14.2
10.0

318
76

130
35.9

16.9
27.1
13.2
11.6

630
125

383
96.6

14.7
26.2
11.8
10.8

575
123

273
68.9

17.0
25.9
14.4
12.3

474
83

234
 59.1 

2,328
388
333

869
156
154

2,328
342
287

279

(893)
2,272
3,735

17.0
 25.8 
14.6
12.1

538
99

302
76.3

82.5

93.1

84.8

96.8

90.7

39.60
2.1

37.70
2.5

35.00
2.4

45.90
2.1

44.55
2.0

* 

 The headline income statement metrics in the above five-year record have been presented to reflect the reclassification of the Smiths Medical business as a discontinued operation and 
the Group's current accounting policy of including restructuring and pension administration costs within headline profit. The discontinued operations comparatives for the year ended 
31 July 2018 have also been restated for the adoption of IFRS 15.

** 

 The statutory income statement metrics are presented based on continuing operations for both the current and comparative years. 

***   Balance sheet metrics, ratios, cash-flow metrics, earnings per share, dividend cover and number of employees are presented based on both continuing and discontinued operations for 

all years.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSUnaudited supplementary consolidated income statement – US dollar translation

Year ended 31 July 2022

Year ended 31 July 2021

165

Headline 
$m

Non-headline 
(note 3) 
$m

CONTINUING OPERATIONS
Revenue
Operating costs

Operating profit/(loss)

Interest receivable
Interest payable
Other financing gains/(losses)
Other finance charges – retirement benefits

Finance costs

Profit/(loss) before taxation

Taxation

Profit/(loss) for the year

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
Profit on discontinued operations

PROFIT/(LOSS) FOR THE YEAR

Profit/(loss) for the year attributable to:
Smiths Group shareholders – continuing operations
Smiths Group shareholders – discontinued operations
Non-controlling interests

EARNINGS PER SHARE
Basic
Basic – continuing
Diluted
Diluted – continuing

3,377
(2,828)

549

18
(72)
–
–

(54)

495

(137)

358

64

422

355
64
3

Total 
$m

3,377
(3,223)

154

18
(72)
26
9

(19)

135

(119)

16

–
(395)

(395)

–
–
26
9

35

(360)

18

(342)

1,280

938

1,344

1,360

(342)
1,280
–

13
1,344
3

351.5c
3.7c
350.0c
3.7c

Headline 
$m

Non-headline 
(note 3) 
$m

3,264
(2,760)

504

12
(66)
–
–

(54)

450

(130)

320

182

502

319
182
1

502

–
(62)

(62)

–
–
(71)
8

(63)

(125)

18

(107)

(8)

(115)

(107)
(8)
–

(115)

Total 
$m

3,264
(2,822)

442

12
(66)
(71)
8

(117)

325

(112)

213

174

387

212
174
1

387

97.2c
53.4c
96.7c
53.1c

Assets and liabilities have been translated into US dollars at the exchange rate at the date of that balance sheet and income, expenses and 
cash-flows are translated at average exchange rates for the period. This reflects the accounting approach that Smiths Group plc would use 
if the Group moved to reporting in US dollars without making any changes to its Group structure or financing arrangements. 

UNAUDITED US DOLLAR PRIMARY STATEMENTS01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSUnaudited supplementary consolidated statement of comprehensive income –  
US dollar translation

166

PROFIT FOR THE YEAR

  Other comprehensive income (OCI):

  OCI which will not be reclassified to the income statement:
  Re-measurement of post-retirement benefits assets and obligations

  Taxation on post-retirement benefits movements
  Fair value movements on financial assets at fair value through OCI

  OCI which will be reclassified and reclassifications:
  Fair value gains/(losses) and reclassification adjustments:
  – deferred in the year on cash-flow and net investment hedges
  – reclassified to income statement on cash-flow and net investment hedges

  Foreign exchange (FX) movements net of recycling:
  Exchange losses/(gains) on translation of foreign operations
  Exchange gains recycled to the income statement on disposal on business

Total other comprehensive income, net of taxation
Total comprehensive income 

Attributable to: 
Smiths Group shareholders
Non-controlling interests

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
$m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
represented* 
$m

1,360

387

(22)

–
(83)

(105)

(108)
7

(101)

363
(258)

105

(101)
1,259

1.258
1

1,259

18
(8)

5

15

111
3

114

(32)
–

(32)

97
484

484
–

484

*   The comparative year has been represented to include ‘Fair value movements on financial assets at fair value through OCI’ within the ‘OCI which will not be reclassified to the income 

statement’ subtotal rather than within the ‘OCI which will be reclassified and reclassifications’ subtotal. This reclassification has no impact on total other comprehensive income in the 
comparative year ended 31 July 2021.

UNAUDITED US DOLLAR PRIMARY STATEMENTS01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSUnaudited supplementary consolidated balance sheet – US dollar translation

31 July 2022 
$m

31 July 2021 
$m

167

NON-CURRENT ASSETS
Intangible assets
Property, plant and equipment
Right of use assets
Financial assets – other investments
Retirement benefit assets
Deferred tax assets
Trade and other receivables
Financial derivatives

CURRENT ASSETS
Inventories
Current tax receivable
Trade and other receivables
Cash and cash equivalents
Financial derivatives
Assets held for sale

TOTAL ASSETS

CURRENT LIABILITIES
Financial liabilities
– borrowings
– lease liabilities
– financial derivatives
Provisions for liabilities and charges
Trade and other payables
Current tax payable
Liabilities held for sale

NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES
Financial liabilities
– borrowings
– lease liabilities
– financial derivatives
Provisions for liabilities and charges
Retirement benefit obligations
Current tax payable
Deferred tax liabilities
Trade and other payables

TOTAL LIABILITIES

NET ASSETS

SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Share capital
Share premium account
Capital redemption reserve
Revaluation reserve
Merger reserve
Retained earnings
Hedge reserve

Total shareholders’ equity
Non-controlling interest equity

TOTAL EQUITY

1,933
296
129
481
376
116
84
–

3,415

694
61
897
1,286
5
–

2,943

6,358

(620)
(35)
(33)
(107)
(829)
(78)
–

2,082
295
150
15
759
128
82
104

3,615

530
105
876
563
3
1,728

3,805

7,420

(13)
(38)
(4)
(64)
(737)
(124)
(393)

(1,702)

(1,373)

(655)
(110)
(24)
(301)
(140)
(4)
(54)
(56)

(1,344)

(3,046)

3,312

166
444
23
–
286
2,612
(246)

3,285
27

3,312

(1,907)
(131)
–
(335)
(178)
(7)
(39)
(82)

(2,679)

(4,052)

3,368

207
505
8
1
327
2,608
(317)

3,339
29

3,368

UNAUDITED US DOLLAR PRIMARY STATEMENTS01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSUnaudited supplementary consolidated statement of changes in equity – US dollar translation

168

At 31 July 2021

  Profit for the year
  Other comprehensive income: 
  – re-measurement of retirement benefits after tax
  – FX movements net of recycling
  – fair value gains/(losses) and related tax

Total comprehensive income for the year

Transactions relating to ownership interests: 
Issue of new equity shares
Purchase of shares by Employee Benefit Trust
Proceeds from exercise of share options
Share buybacks
Dividends:
– equity shareholders
Share-based payment

At 31 July 2022

At 31 July 2020

  Profit for the year
  Other comprehensive income: 
  – re-measurement of retirement benefits after tax
  – FX movements net of recycling
  – fair value gains/(losses) and related tax

Total comprehensive income for the year

Transactions relating to ownership interests: 
Exercises of share options
Receipt of capital from non-controlling interest
Purchase of own shares
Dividends:
– equity shareholders
– non-controlling interests
Share-based payment

Share capital 
 and share 
premium 
$m

Other 
 reserves 
$m

Retained  
earnings 
$m

2,608

1,357

(22)
(377)
(83)

875

–
(21)
1
(672)

(197)
18

Hedge 
reserve 
$m

(317)

–

–
172
(101)

71

–
–
–
–

–
–

Equity 
shareholders’ 
funds 
$m

Non-
controlling 
interest 
$m

3,339

1,357

(22)
(337)
(184)

814

3
(21)
1
(672)

(197)
18

29

3

–
(5)
–

(2)

–
–
–
–

–
–

Total 
equity 
$m

3,368

1,360

(22)
(342)
(184)

812

3
(21)
1
(672)

(197)
18

336

–

–
(44)
–

(44)

–
–
–
17

–
–

712

–

–
(88)
–

(88)

3
–
–
(17)

–
–

610

309

2,612

(246)

3,285

27

3,312

Share capital 
 and share 
premium 
$m

Other 
 reserves 
$m

667

–

–
42
–

42

3
–
–

–
–
–

319

–

–
17
–

17

–
–
–

–
–
–

Retained  
earnings 
$m

2,534

386

10
(72)
5

329

–
–
(22)

(252)
–
19

Hedge  
reserve 
$m

(413)

–

–
(18)
114

96

–
–
–

–
–
–

Equity  
shareholders’ 
funds 
$m

Non-
controlling 
interest 
$m

3,107

386

29

1

10
(31)
119

484

3
–
(22)

(252)
–
19

–
(1)
–

–

–
1
–

–
(1)
–

Total 
equity 
$m

3,136

387

10
(32)
119

484

3
1
(22)

(252)
(1)
19

At 31 July 2021

712

336

2,608

(317)

3,339

29

3,368

UNAUDITED US DOLLAR PRIMARY STATEMENTS01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSUnaudited supplementary consolidated cash-flow statement – US dollar translation

169

Net cash inflow from operating activities
Cash-flows from investing activities
Expenditure on capitalised development
Expenditure on other intangible assets
Purchases of property, plant and equipment
Disposals of property, plant and equipment
Capital returned by/(investment in) financial assets
Acquisition of businesses
Investment in financial asset – discontinued operations
Proceeds on disposal of subsidiaries, net of cash disposed

Net cash-flow used in investing activities

Cash-flows from financing activities

Proceeds from exercise of share options
Share buybacks
Purchase of shares by Employee Benefit Trust
Proceeds received on exercise of employee share options
Settlement of cash-settled options
Dividends paid to equity shareholders
Lease payments
Reduction and repayment of borrowings
Cash inflow from matured derivative financial instruments

Net cash-flow used in financing activities

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
Cash held in disposal group
Exchange differences

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year comprise:
– cash at bank and in hand
– short-term deposits

– bank overdrafts

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
$m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
$m

367

726

(29)
(11)
(76)
4
–
–
–
1,751

(37)
(16)
(106)
3
9
(113)
(19)
–

1,639

(279)

3
(672)
(21)
1
(1)
(197)
(50)
(388)
30

3
–
(22)
–
–
(251)
(60)
–
5

(1,295)

(325)

711
563
63
(52)

1,285

295
991

1,286
(1)

1,285

122
480
(38)
(1)

563

304
259

563
–

563

UNAUDITED US DOLLAR PRIMARY STATEMENTS01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS170

Unaudited Group US dollar financial record 2018-2022
The headline income statement metrics shown below for the year ended 31 July 2018 has been represented to show the results of Smiths 
Medical as a discontinued operation.

Income statement metrics – headline*

Continuing operations

Revenue

3,377

3,264

3,216

3,218

3,139

Year ended 
31 July 2022 
$m

Year ended 
31 July 2021 
$m

Year ended 
31 July 2020 
$m

Year ended 
31 July 2019 
$m

Year ended 
31 July 2018 
$m

Headline operating profit

Headline profit before tax

Discontinued operations

Revenue

Headline operating profit

Headline profit before tax

Income statement metrics – statutory**
Revenue
Operating profit 
Profit before taxation 
Profit for the year

Balance sheet metrics***
Net debt
Shareholders’ equity
Average capital employed

Ratios***
Headline operating profit: revenue (%) 
Headline effective tax rate (%)
Return on capital employed (%)
Return on shareholders’ funds (%)

Cash-flow metrics***
Headline operating cash 
Headline operating cash conversion (%)

Free cash-flow 
Free cash-flow per share (c)

Earnings per share***
Headline earnings per share (c) 

Dividends and dividend cover***
Cents per share (c)
Headline dividend cover 

549

495

468

87

86

3,377
154
135
1,362

504

450

1,152

240

239

3,264
442
325
387

412

351

1,159

232

227

3,216
304
169
337

550

484

1,126

189

185

3,218
420
391
291

523

449

1,172

210

208

3,139
461
386
375

(183)
3,285
3,578

(1,415)
3,339
5,790

(1,495)
3,107
5,652

 (1,462)
2,882
4,852

 (1,172)
2,982
4,903

16.5
27.2
14.2
9.9

829
76

171
47.2

16.9
27.1
13.2
12.2

855
125

520
131.1

14.7
26.2
11.8
10.6

726
123

345
68.9

17.0
25.9
14.4
12.1

611
83

301
76.1

17.0
25.8
14.6
12.5

725
 99 

407
102.9

108.6

126.3

107.0

124.7

122.3

52.1
2.1

51.1
2.5

44.2
2.4

59.1
2.1

60.1
2.0

* 

 The headline income statement metrics in the above five-year record have been presented to reflect the reclassification of the Smiths Medical business as a discontinued operation and 
the Group's current accounting policy of including restructuring and pension administration costs within headline profit. The discontinued operations comparatives for the year ended 
31 July 2018 have also been restated for the adoption of IFRS 15.

** 

 The statutory income statement metrics are presented based on continuing operations for both the current and comparative year. 

***   Balance sheet metrics, ratios, cash-flow metrics, earnings per share, dividend cover and number of employees are presented based on both continuing and discontinued operations for 

all years.

UNAUDITED US DOLLAR PRIMARY STATEMENTS01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSMITHS GROUP PLC COMPANY ACCOUNTS

Company balance sheet

NON-CURRENT ASSETS

Right of use assets
Investments
Loans due from subsidiaries
Retirement benefit assets
Financial derivatives

CURRENT ASSETS
Trade and other receivables
Current tax receivable
Cash and cash equivalents
Financial derivatives

TOTAL ASSETS

CURRENT LIABILITIES
Trade and other payables
Lease liabilities
Financial derivatives

NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES
Borrowings
Lease liabilities
Provisions for liabilities and charges
Retirement benefit liabilities
Financial derivatives
Deferred tax liabilities

TOTAL LIABILITIES

NET ASSETS

SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Called up share capital
Share premium account
Capital redemption reserve
Other reserves
Profit and loss account

TOTAL EQUITY

171

Notes

31 July 2022 
£m

31 July 2021 
£m

2

3

3

10

8

5

7

8

6

7

8

7

7

9

10

8

4

11

11

11

11

11

5
2,422
561
309
–

3,297

62
5
770
9

846

6
2,414
611
546
75

3,652

52
5
158
2

217

4,143

3,869

(588)
(1)
(29)

(618)

(545)
(5)
(2)
(47)
(20)
–

(619)

(1,237)

2,906

136
365
19
181
2,205

2,906

(91)
(1)
(2)

(94)

(1,354)
(6)
(2)
(58)
–
(28)

(1,448)

(1,542)

2,327

149
363
6
181
1,628

2,327

The Company's profit for the period was £1,257m (FY2021: £2m loss).

The accounts on pages 171 to 179 were approved by the Board of Directors on 22 September 2022 and were signed on its behalf by:

Paul Keel 
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER  

Clare Scherrer
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Smiths Group plc – registered number 137013

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 
 
Company statement of changes in equity

At 31 July 2021

  Profit for the year

  Other comprehensive income:
  – re-measurement of retirement benefits
  – taxation recognised on retirement benefits

Total comprehensive income for the year

  Transactions with owners:
  Issue of new equity shares
  Purchase of shares by Employee Benefit Trust
  Proceeds received on exercise of employee share options
  Shares purchased under a buyback programme
  Dividends paid to equity shareholders
  Share-based payment

Total transactions with owners recognised in equity

At 31 July 2022

At 31 July 2020

  Profit for the year

  Other comprehensive income:
  – re-measurement of retirement benefits
  – taxation recognised on retirement benefits

Total comprehensive income for the year

  Transactions with owners:
  Issue of new equity shares
  Purchase of shares by Employee Benefit Trust
  Dividends paid to equity shareholders
  Share-based payment

Total transactions with owners recognised in equity

At 31 July 2021

172

Share 
capital 
£m

149

Share  
premium 
£m

363

–

–
–

–

–
–
–
(13)
–
–

(13)

–

–
–

–

2
–
–
–
–
–

2

136

365

Share 
capital 
£m

149

Share  
premium 
£m

361

–

–
–

– 

–
–
–
–

–

–

–
–

–

2
–
–
–

2

149

363

Capital  
redemption 
reserve 
£m

6

–

–
–

–

–
–
–
13
–
–

13

19

Capital  
redemption 
reserve 
£m

6

–

–
–

–

–
–
–
–

–

6

Other  
reserves 
£m

181

–

–
–

–

–
–
–
–
–
–

–

181

Retained  
profit  
£m

Shareholders’ 
equity 
£m

1,628

1,257

2,327

1,257

(23)
6

(23)
6

1,240

1,240

–
(16)
1
(511)
(150)
13

(663)

2,205

2
(16)
1
(511)
(150)
13

(661)

2,906

Other  
reserves 
£m

Retained  
profit  
£m

Shareholders’ 
equity  
£m

181

1,812

2,509

–

–
–

–

–
–
–
–

–

(2)

12
(6)

4

–
(16)
(185)
13

(188)

(2)

12
(6)

4

2
(16)
(185)
13

(186)

181

1,628

2,327

SMITHS GROUP PLC COMPANY ACCOUNTS01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS173

Company accounting policies

Basis of preparation
These financial statements were prepared in accordance with Financial Reporting Standard 101 Reduced Disclosure Framework (‘FRS 101’). 
In preparing these financial statements, the Company applies the recognition, measurement and disclosure requirements of UK-adopted 
international accounting standards (‘Adopted IFRSs’), but makes amendments where necessary in order to comply with Companies Act 2006 
and has set out below where advantage of the FRS 101 disclosure exemptions has been taken.

These accounts have been prepared on a going concern basis and under the historical cost convention modified to include revaluation  
of certain financial instruments, share options and pension assets and liabilities held at fair value.

As permitted by Section 408(3) of the Companies Act 2006, the Company’s income statement and statement of comprehensive income have 
not been presented. As permitted by Section 408(2), information about the Company’s employee numbers and costs is not presented. 

Going concern
The Directors are satisfied that the Group, (of which the Company is the holding company) has adequate resources to continue to operate 
for a period not less than 12 months from the date of approval of the financial statements and that there are no material uncertainties 
around their assessment. Accordingly, the Directors continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting. Details of the going concern 
assessment for the Group are provided in the accounting policies note of the consolidated financial statements.

Exemptions from the requirements of IFRS applied in accordance with FRS 101
The following exemptions from the requirements of IFRS have been applied in the preparation of these financial statements,  
in accordance with FRS 101: 

–  Paragraphs 45(b) and 46 to 52 of IFRS 2, ‘Share-based payment’ (details of the number and weighted-average exercise prices of share 

options, and how the fair value of goods or services received was determined)

–  IFRS 7, ‘Financial Instruments: Disclosures’
–  Paragraphs 91 to 99 of IFRS 13, ‘Fair value measurement’ (disclosure of valuation techniques and inputs used for fair value measurement 

of assets and liabilities).

–  Paragraph 38 of IAS 1, ‘Presentation of financial statements’ comparative information requirements in respect of:

 – paragraph 79(a)(iv) of IAS 1;
 – paragraph 73(e) of IAS 16 ‘Property, plant and equipment’;

–  The following paragraphs of IAS 1, ‘Presentation of financial statements’

 – 10(d) (statement of cash-flows),
 – 16 (statement of compliance with all IFRS),
 – 38A (requirement for minimum of two primary statements, including cash flow statements),
 – 38B-D (additional comparative information),
 – 111 (cash flow statement information), and
 – 134-136 (capital management disclosures)

–  IAS 7, ‘Statement of cash-flows’
–  Paragraph 30 and 31 of IAS 8 ‘Accounting policies, changes in accounting estimates and errors’ (requirement for the disclosure  

of information when an entity has not applied a new IFRS that has been issued but is not yet effective)

–  Paragraph 17 of IAS 24, ‘Related party disclosures’ (key management compensation)
–  The requirements in IAS 24, ‘Related party disclosures’ to disclose related party transactions entered into between two or more members 

of a group.

–  The requirements of paragraphs 52 and 58 of IFRS 16 Leases

SMITHS GROUP PLC COMPANY ACCOUNTS01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS174

Significant judgements, key assumptions and estimates
The preparation of the accounts in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and 
judgements that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the 
accounts and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

The key sources of estimation uncertainty together with the significant judgements and assumptions used in these Parent Company financial 
statements are set out below.

Sources of estimation uncertainty
Taxation
The Company has recognised deferred tax assets of £66m (FY2021: £89m) relating to revenue losses brought forward. The recognition of 
these assets requires management to make significant estimates as to the ability to recover them against the unwind of other tax positions 
and forecast UK taxable profits of the tax group. Further detail on the Company’s deferred taxation position is included in note 4.

Retirement benefits
Determining the value of the future defined benefit obligation involves significant estimates in respect of the assumptions used to calculate 
present values. These include future mortality, discount rate and inflation. The Company uses previous experience and independent 
actuarial advice to select the values for critical estimates. A portion of the Company’s pension liabilities are insured via bulk annuity policies 
which broadly match the scheme obligation to identified groups of pensioners. These assets are valued by an external qualified actuary at 
the actuarial valuation of the corresponding liability, reflecting this matching relationship.

The Company's principal defined benefit pension plans have been closed so that no future benefits are accrued. Critical estimates for these 
plans, and the effect of variances in these estimates, are disclosed in note 8 to the consolidated financial statements.

Significant judgements made in applying accounting policies

Taxation
As stated in the previous section 'Sources of estimation uncertainty', the Company has recognised deferred tax assets of £66m 
(FY2021: £89m) relating to revenue losses brought forward. The decision to recognise deferred tax assets requires judgement in 
determining whether the Company will be able to utilise historical tax losses in future periods. It has been concluded that there are sufficient 
taxable profits in future periods to support recognition.

Retirement benefits
At 31 July 2022 the Company has recognised £309m of retirement benefit assets (FY2021: £546m), which arises from the rights of the 
employers to recover the surplus at the end of the life of the scheme. 

The recognition of this surplus is a significant judgement. There is judgement required in determining whether an unconditional right of 
refund exists based on the provisions of the relevant trust deed and rules. Having taken legal advice with regard to the rights of the Company 
under the relevant Trust deed and rules, it has been determined that the surplus is recoverable by the Company and therefore can be 
recognised. If the pension schemes were wound up while they still had members, the schemes would need to buy out the benefits of all 
members. The buyouts would cost significantly more than the carrying value of the scheme liabilities within these financial statements 
which are calculated in accordance with IAS 19: Employee benefits.

Foreign currencies
Foreign currency transactions are recorded at the exchange rate ruling on the date of transaction. Foreign exchange gains and losses 
resulting from the settlement of such transactions, and from the retranslation at year-end exchange rates of monetary assets and liabilities 
denominated in foreign currencies, are recognised in the profit and loss account.

Leases
At the commencement date of the lease, the Company recognises lease liabilities measured at the present value of lease payments to be 
made over the lease term, which includes periods covered by renewal options the Company is reasonably certain to exercise. In calculating 
the present value of lease payments, the Company uses the incremental borrowing rate at the lease commencement date.

The Company recognises right of use assets at the commencement date of the lease. Right of use assets are measured at cost including 
the amount of lease liabilities recognised and initial direct costs incurred, less any incentives granted by the lessor. Right of use assets are 
subject to impairment and are depreciated over the shorter of the lease term and the useful life of the right of use asset.

The Company has a buildings lease with a term of seven years. Other leases with lease terms of 12 months or less and leases of office 
equipment with low value (typically below £5,000) are recognised as an expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term with the 
Company having applied ‘short-term lease’ and ‘lease of low-value assets’ recognition exemptions.

SMITHS GROUP PLC COMPANY ACCOUNTS01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS175

Investments in and loans to Group companies
The Company’s investments in shares in Group companies are stated at cost less provision for impairment. Any impairment is charged to 
the profit and loss account as it arises.

The recoverability of intercompany loans is assessed applying the methodology of IFRS 9 by looking at the credit quality of the subsidiary 
and any support available to the entity. These calculations require the use of estimates including projected future cash-flows and other 
future events. The application of the expected credit loss model has not had a material impact on the Company's loan receivables 
provisioning position.

Financial instruments
The policies disclosed in the Group accounting policies on pages 108 to 115 for recognition, measurement and presentation of financial 
instruments are applied in the Company accounts.

Taxation
Deferred tax is provided using the balance sheet liability method. A deferred tax asset is recognised where it is probable that future taxable 
income will be sufficient to utilise the available relief. 

Deferred tax is provided on temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries, except where the timing of the reversal of the 
temporary difference is controlled by the Company and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

Provisions
Provisions for disposal indemnities, restructuring costs, property dilapidations and legal claims are recognised when: the Company has a 
legal or constructive obligation as a result of a past event; it is probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation; 
and the amount has been reliably estimated. Provisions are not recognised for future operating losses.

Provisions are discounted where the time value of money is material.

Retirement benefits
The Company has both defined benefit and defined contribution plans. The policies disclosed in the Group accounting policies on pages 108 
to 115 for recognition, measurement and presentation of retirement benefits are applied in the Company accounts. Note 8 to the consolidated 
accounts explains the valuation basis for the Company's retirement benefit schemes assets and liabilities.

Share-based payment
The Company operates a number of equity-settled and cash-settled share-based compensation plans. 

The fair value of the shares or share options granted is recognised over the vesting period to reflect the value of the employee services 
received. The charge relating to grants to employees of the Company is recognised as an expense in the profit and loss account and the 
charge for grants to employees of other Group companies is recognised as an investment in the relevant subsidiary. 

The fair value of options granted, excluding the impact of any non-market vesting conditions, is calculated using established option pricing 
models, principally binomial models. The probability of meeting non-market vesting conditions, which include profitability targets, is used to 
estimate the number of share options that are likely to vest. 

For cash-settled share-based payment schemes, a liability is recognised based on the fair value of the payment earned by the balance sheet 
date. For equity-settled share-based payment schemes, the corresponding credit is recognised directly in reserves. 

Dividends
Dividends are recognised as a liability in the period in which they are authorised. The interim dividend is recognised when it is paid and the 
final dividend is recognised when it has been approved by shareholders at the Annual General Meeting.

SMITHS GROUP PLC COMPANY ACCOUNTS01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS176

Notes to the Company accounts

1 Audit fee and directors emoluments
The audit fee paid to KPMG LLP for the Parent Company was £0.1m (FY2021: £0.1m).

Directors' emoluments in the year amounted to £4m (FY2021: £5m). Further information is in the Remuneration & People Committee Report 
on pages 75 to 88. 

2 Right of use assets

Cost or valuation
At 31 July 2020

At 31 July 2021

At 31 July 2022

Depreciation
At 31 July 2020
Charge for the year

At 31 July 2021

Charge for the year

At 31 July 2022

Net book value at 31 July 2022
Net book value at 31 July 2021
Net book value at 31 July 2020

3 Investments and loans due from subsidiaries

Cost or valuation

At 31 July 2020
Foreign exchange rate movements
Contribution through share options
Decrease in advances due from subsidiaries

At 31 July 2021

Foreign exchange rate movements
Contribution through share options
Decrease in advances due from subsidiaries

At 31 July 2022

Provision for impairment

At 31 July 2020, 31 July 2021 and 31 July 2022

Net book value at 31 July 2022
Net book value at 31 July 2021
Net book value at 31 July 2020

Properties 
£m

8

8

8

1
1

2

1

3

5

6
7

Total 
£m

3,279

(74)
9
(183)

3,031

21
8
(71)

2,989

6

2,983
3,025

3,273

Shares in 
subsidiary 
undertakings 
£m

Loans 
due from 
 subsidiaries 
£m

2,410

–
9
–

2,419

–
8

–
2,427

5

2,422
2,414

2,405

869

(74)
–
(183)

612

21
–

(71)
562

1

561
611

868

Loans due to subsidiaries are offset against loans due from subsidiaries to the extent that there is a legal right of set off and an intention to 
settle the balances net. At 31 July 2022 £1,664m of loans payable are offset against loans receivable (FY2021: £2,790m). The Company has 
large offsetting loan balances because it uses loans to reduce its foreign currency exposures and separately monitor net cash generated 
from trading activities. 

The Company’s subsidiaries are largely held according to business lines by the following holding companies, which are incorporated 
in England: 

Smiths Group International Holdings Limited  
Smiths Detection Group Limited  
John Crane Group Limited 
Flex-Tek Group Limited 
Smiths Interconnect Group Limited 

SMITHS GROUP PLC COMPANY ACCOUNTS01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS177

The principal subsidiaries and their countries of incorporation are:
England
Smiths Detection – Watford Ltd 
John Crane UK Limited

Other
Smiths Detection Germany GmbH (Germany) 
Smiths Detection (Asia-Pacific) Pte Ltd (Singapore) 
John Crane Middle East FZE (UAE) 
John Crane Technology (Tianjin) Co Limited (China) 
John Crane Saudi Arabia Ltd (Saudi Arabia) 
John Crane Canada Inc (Canada)

United States
Smiths Detection, Inc. 
John Crane, Inc.  
Titeflex Corporation 
Flexible Technologies, LLC.  
Tutco, LLC. 
Royal Metal Products, LLC  
Smiths Interconnect Americas, Inc 
Smiths Interconnect, Inc 
Kreisler Manufacturing Corp 
Smiths Tubular Systems – Laconia Inc

Of the companies above, Smiths Group International Holdings Limited is 100% owned directly by the Company. The others are 100% owned 
through intermediate holding companies. Shareholdings are of ordinary shares or common stock. All of the above subsidiaries operate in 
their country of incorporation.

See pages 180 to 188 for a complete list of subsidiary undertakings. 

4 Deferred tax assets and liabilities
The Company has recognised the following deferred tax assets and liabilities:

At 31 July 2020
(Charge)/credit to income statement
Charge to equity
At 31 July 2021
(Charge)/credit to income statement
Charge to equity
At 31 July 2022

Share- 
based  
payment 
£m

Retirement  
benefit  
obligations 
£m

Losses  
carried  
forward 
£m

3
–
–
3
(2)
(1)
–

(88)
(29)
(6)
(123)
51
6
(66)

72
17
–
89
(23)
–
66

Other 
£m

2
1
–
3
(3)
–
–

Total 
£m

(11)
(11)
(6)
(28)
23
5
–

The Company is part of a UK tax group including all its UK-based subsidiaries. The Company has recognised deferred tax assets of £66m  
(FY2021: £89m) relating to revenue losses brought forward. The recognition of these assets is dependent on the ability to recover them 
against the unwind of other tax positions and forecast UK taxable profits of the tax group. The treatment of these assets is reviewed at each 
reporting date.

As at 31 July 2022 the Company has unrecognised deferred tax assets relating to losses of £142m (FY2021: £nil).

In June 2021, it was announced that from 1 April 2023, there would be an increase in the rate of UK corporation tax from 19% to 25%. 
Deferred tax, as at 31 July 2022 has been calculated at the 25% rate.

5 Trade and other receivables

Amounts owed by subsidiaries 
Other receivables

6 Trade and other payables

Amounts owed to subsidiaries
Term loans due within one year
Other creditors
Accruals and deferred income

31 July 2022 
£m

31 July 2021 
£m

61
1

62

51
1

52

31 July 2022 
£m

31 July 2021 
£m

58
504
15
11

588

56
–
21
14

91

SMITHS GROUP PLC COMPANY ACCOUNTS01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS7 Borrowings and net debt

Cash at bank 
Short-term deposits

Cash and cash equivalents

Lease liabilities falling due within one year 
Lease liabilities falling due after one year
Term loans falling due within one year
Term loans falling due after one year

Borrowings

Net debt

Term loans and lease liabilities
The currency and coupons for the term loans are disclosed in note 18 of the Group accounts. 

Less than one year
Between one and two years
Between two and five years
Greater than five years

Smiths Group plc term loans and lease liabilities

178

31 July 2022 
£m

31 July 2021 
£m

10
760

770

(1)
(5)
(504)
(545)

(1,055)

(285)

20
138

158

(1)
(6)
(23)
(1,354)

(1,384)

(1,226)

31 July 2022 
£m

31 July 2021 
£m

505
1
548
1

24
290
516
554

1,055

1,384

See the liquidity risk disclosures in note 19 in the Group accounts for information on the cash and borrowing facilities available to the Group. 
Smiths has Revolving Credit Facilities of $800m maturing on 1 November 2024. 

8 Derivatives
The tables below set out the nominal amount and fair value of derivative contracts held by the Company: 

Contract or underlying 
nominal amount 
£m

Assets 
£m

Liabilities 
£m

Foreign exchange contracts (not hedge accounted)
Cross-currency swaps (fair value and net investment hedges)
Interest rate swaps (fair value hedges)

Total financial derivatives

Balance sheet entries
Non-current
Current

Total financial derivatives

Foreign exchange contracts (not hedge accounted)
Currency swaps (fair value and net investment hedges)
Interest rate swaps (fair value hedges)

Total financial derivatives

Balance sheet entries
Non-current
Current

Total financial derivatives

593
615
–

1,208

9
–
–

9

–
9

9

(9)
(40)
–

(49)

(20)
(29)

(49)

Contract or underlying 
nominal amount 
£m

Assets 
£m

Liabilities 
£m

325
539
108

972

2
72
3

77

75
2

77

(2)
–
–

(2)

–
(2)

(2)

At 31 July 2022

Fair value

Net 
£m

–
(40)
–

(40)

(20)
(20)

(40)

At 31 July 2021

Fair value

Net 
£m

–
72
3

75

75
–

75

Derivatives, including forward exchange contracts, currency swaps, interest rate instruments and embedded derivatives are Level 2 fair 
value instruments and are valued at the net present value of the future cash-flows calculated using market data at the balance sheet date 
(principally exchange rates and yield curves).

The debit to the income statement arising from change in fair value in the year was £28m (FY2021: £5m).

9 Provisions for liabilities and charges

Disposals

At 
31 July 2021 
£m

Charged 
against profit 
£m

Utilisation 
£m

At 
31 July 2022 
£m

2

–

–

2

The closing disposal provision relates to warranties and other obligations in respect of a past disposal and is expected to be utilised within 
the next five years.

SMITHS GROUP PLC COMPANY ACCOUNTS01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS179

10 Post-retirement benefits
The Company is the principal employer for the two major defined benefit plans in the UK. The Company is accounting for all the UK defined 
benefit schemes (funded and unfunded) and virtually all of the post-retirement healthcare schemes. 

The retirement benefit assets and liabilities comprise: 

Market value of scheme assets
Present value of funded scheme liabilities
Surplus restriction

Surplus

Unfunded pension plans
Post-retirement healthcare

Present value of unfunded obligations

Net pension asset

Retirement benefit assets
Retirement benefit liabilities

Net pension asset

31 July 2022 
£m

31 July 2021 
£m

3,067
(2,738)
(20)

4,104
(3,558)
–

309

(43)
(4)

(47)

262

309
(47)

262

546

(54)
(4)

(58)

488

546
(58)

488

See the disclosures for UK schemes in note 8 to the consolidated accounts for the circumstances of the major schemes, risk management, 
principal assumptions, assets and liabilities and the funding position of the two major schemes. 

11 Share capital and reserves

Share capital

Ordinary shares of 37.5p each

Total share capital at 31 July 2020
Issue of new equity shares – exercise of share options

Total share capital at 31 July 2021
Shares purchased under a buyback programme
Issue of new equity shares – exercise of share options

Total share capital at 31 July 2022

Number of shares

Issued 
capital 
£m

Consideration 
£m

396,211,180

165,934

396,377,114

(34,152,897)
131,942

362,356,159

149

–

149

(13)
–

136

2

2

At 31 July 2022, all of the issued share capital was in free issue. All issued shares are fully paid. See note 9 to the consolidated accounts 
for information about share schemes, including total shares under options and options exercisable at the balance sheet date. During the 
year, the Company received £3m (FY2021: £2m) on the issue of shares in respect of the exercise of options awarded under various share 
option schemes. 

Smiths Industries Employee Benefit Trust
The retained earnings include the purchase of Smiths Group plc shares by the Smiths Industries Employee Benefit Trust, and the issue of 
these shares upon the exercise of share options. The consideration paid was £16m (FY2021: £16m) and £3m (FY2021: £2m) was received, 
£2m from the issue of new shares (FY2021: £2m) and £1m (FY2021: £nil) directly to the Employee Benefit Trust. At 31 July 2022 the Trust held 
618,662 (FY2021: 326,364) ordinary shares.

Distributable profits
The Company’s profit and loss reserve of £2,205m (FY2021: £1,628m) includes £1,328m (FY2021: £638m) of distributable profits. See note 26 
in the Group accounts for a discussion of capital management and the factors which the Board considers when proposing dividends. 

Other reserves
Other reserves arose from the cancellation of the share premium arising from an equity-funded acquisition in the year ended 30 July 1988.

Differential between consolidated and parent Company net assets
The Group's consolidated balance sheet shows net assets that are £185m lower (FY2021: £96m higher) than the net assets shown on the 
Parent Company's balance sheet. This deficit principally arose in 2007 when the Group returned £2.1bn of capital to shareholders, creating 
a net asset deficit of £1.9bn. Earnings retained within the Group have subsequently reduced this deficit. The current year reversal has arisen 
from the dividend paid to the Company by Smiths Group International Holdings Ltd following the sale of the Medical business.

12 Contingent liabilities
The Company has provided guarantees and arranged letter of credit facilities to support the Group’s pension plans. The current amount 
outstanding under letters of credit is £56m (FY2021: £54m). The Company has guaranteed the US$800m revolving credit facility available to 
a subsidiary.

13 Post Balance Sheet Event
Details of the proposed final dividend announced since the end of the reporting period are given in note 25 to the Group consolidated 
financial statements.

SMITHS GROUP PLC COMPANY ACCOUNTS01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSUBSIDIARY UNDERTAKINGS

A full list of the Group’s related undertakings as at 31 July 2022 is provided below. The entities are grouped by the country in which they 
are incorporated and details of their registered office address, classes of shares and ownership is disclosed. Related undertakings 
include subsidiaries, associated undertakings, joint ventures and associates.

Name

Security 

Direct (%)

Total (%)

180

UNITED KINGDOM
11-12 St James’s Square, London, SW1Y 4LB
Air Log Limited
EIS Group Plc
Flex-Tek Group Limited
Flightspares Limited
Francis Shaw And Company (Manchester) Limited
Francis Shaw PLC

Graseby Limited
Roof Units (Group) Limited
S.I. Pension Trustees Limited
SI Properties Limited
SITI 1 Limited
Smiths Aerospace Components Tyseley Limited
Smiths Aerospace Gloucester Limited
Smiths Finance Limited
Smiths Group Finance EU Limited
Smiths Group Finance US Limited
Smiths Group Innovation Limited
Smiths Group International Holdings Limited
Smiths Industries Limited
Smiths Nominees Limited
Smiths Wolverhampton Limited
Sovos Limited
TI Corporate Services Limited
TI Group Limited
Tigrup No. 7 Limited
Tigrup No. 14 Limited
XDG Limited
XDG Services Limited
29 Dunsinane Avenue, Dundee, DD2 3QF
Flexible Ducting Limited
Trak Microwave Limited
54 Hagley Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B16 8PE
CVE Trustee Limited
Smiths Pensions Limited
TI Pension Trustee Limited
Abercanaid, Merthyr Tydfil, Mid Glamorgan, CF48 1UX
Amnitec Hose Limited
Amnitec Limited
Brooklyn House, 44 Brook Street, Shepshed, Loughborough, LE12 9RG
Gastite Systems Limited
Buckingham House, 361-366 Buckingham Avenue, Slough, Berkshire, SL1 4LU
Flexibox International Limited
John Crane Group Limited
John Crane Investments Limited
John Crane UK Limited
Project Sugar Limited
Smiths Business Information Services Limited
Century House, Maylands Avenue, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 7DE
Smiths Detection Group Limited
Smiths Detection Investments Limited
Smiths Detection Limited
Smiths Detection-Watford Limited
Smiths Heimann Limited
No 1 Exchange, Market Street, Aberdeen, Scotland
John Crane Asset Management Solutions Limited

Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary 
Ordinary 
37% 2nd Pref Ordinary; 5.25% Cum Pref; 
Dif; Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary
Common 
Ordinary
Ordinary; Ordinary A
Ordinary; RDM
Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary
7% Non Cum Pref; Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary

Ordinary
Ordinary

Ordinary
Ordinary
Limited By Guarantee

Ordinary
Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary

Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary

Ordinary

100

100

100
100
100
100

100

100
100
100

100
100
100

100

100
99

100

100

100
100
100
100
100
100

100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
99

100
100

100
100
100

100
100

100

100
100
100
100
100
100

100
100
100
100
100

100

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSUBSIDIARY UNDERTAKINGS

Name

Unit 130 Centennial Park, Elstree, Hertfordshire, WD6 3TJ
Hypertac Limited
Smiths Industries Industrial Group Limited
Smiths Interconnect Group Limited
ANGOLA
Rue Kwamme Nkrumah, Torres Impor-Africa, 3 Andar, Apt A, Luanda
John Crane (Angola) Prestacao De Services Ltd

ARGENTINA
Av. Leandro N. Alem 1110, 13 Floor, Baker Mackenzie Office, Buenos Aires
John Crane Argentina SA
TI Group Automotive Systems (Argentina) SA

AUSTRALIA
549 – 551, Somerville Road, Sunshine, Melbourne, VIC 3020
Flexibox Pty Limited
John Crane Australia Pty Limited
Botany Grove Estate Unit 5, 14A Baker Street, Botany, NSW 2019
Smiths Detection (Australia) Pty Ltd

AZERBAIJAN REPUBLIC
32, Dostluq Street, Salyan Highway PO Box AZ1023, Baku
John Crane Baku LLC

BELGIUM
Glasstraat 37, Antwerpen, 2170
John Crane Belgium NV

BRAZIL
Rua Tabapoã, 422, 10th floor, conj. 101, Itaim Bibi, 04533-001
Smiths Detection Brasil Comérico De Equipamentos Ltda
Industrial District of The City of Rio Claro, State of São Paulo,  
AV. Brasil Number 4.700, CEP 13505-600
Smiths Brasil Ltda

CANADA
423, Green North Road, Stoney Creek, Ontario, L8E 3A1
John Crane Canada Inc
3700, Stock Exchange Tower, P.O. Box 242, 800 Place Victoria, 
Montreal, PQ, H4Z 1E9
Smiths Detection Montreal Inc.
4610, Eastgate Parkway, Unit 3, Mississauga, Ontario, L4W 3W6
Flexible Technologies (Canada) Ltd.
16771, Sainte Marie Rd, Kirkland, Quebec, H9H 5H3
Smiths Interconnect Canada Inc

Security 

Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary

Ordinary

Common
Ordinary

Ordinary 
Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Common

Ordinary

Common

Class A Shares; Class B Shares

Ordinary

 Common Shares

CHILE
Americo Vespucio 2542, Complejo Empresarial El Cortijo, Conchali, Santiago
John Crane Chile SA

CHINA
No. 1, Lane 65, Huanlong Road, Pudong New District, Shanghai
Smiths (Shanghai) Management Co., Ltd
No. 7, Factory Building, Maqiao Industrial Square, Changshu Economic 
Development Zone, Changshu, Jiangsu 215536
Changshu Flex-Tek Thermal Fluid Systems Manufacturer Co. Ltd
No.9, No. 1, Haitai Huake Road, Huayuan Industrial District (Outside The Ring), 
Binhai Hi-Tech, Industrial Park, Tianjin
John Crane Technology (Tianjin) Co Limited
No. 14 Unit, No. 78, XingLin Road, Suzhou Industrial Park, Suzhou 215026
Antares Advanced Test Technologies (Suzhou) Co. Ltd
No. 120, Sanjiang Avenue, Economic Development Zone, Mianyang, 
Sichuan Province
Huafeng Smiths Interconnect (Sichuan) Co., Ltd
Room 923B, No 55, Xili Road, Shanghai, (China) Pilot Free Trade Zone
SMO Detection Equipment (Shanghai) Co., Ltd
Room 1668, No. 14F Floor 3 Datong Building, Huanghe Avenue,  
Nankai District, Tianjin
John Crane China Co Limited

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

181

Direct (%)

Total (%)

100
100
100

100

100
100

100
100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

60

100

100

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSUBSIDIARY UNDERTAKINGS

182

Name

Security 

Direct (%)

Total (%)

COLOMBIA
Calle 46A No 82-54 Int 14, Parque Empresarial San Cayetano, Bogota
John Crane Colombia SA

COSTA RICA
33rd St. Number 777 Barrio Francisco Peralta, Central Avenue & 8th, San Jose
Smiths Interconnect Sociedad Anonima

CZECH REPUBLIC
Jana Sigmunda 78, Lutin, 78349
John Crane A.S.

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Calle El Recodo, #2 Bella Vista, Santa Domingo
John Crane Dominicana SA

EGYPT
139, Mogamaa El Masanea Street, El Amireya, Cairo
John Crane Egypt Llc
John Crane Egypt Sealing Systems Llc
Nile City Towers, North Tower, 22nd Floor, Ramlet Boulaq, Nile Cournich, Cairo
Detection Technologies Egypt

FINLAND
PO Box 10, Punasillantie 15, Muurame, 40950
John Crane Safematic Oy

FRANCE
22, Avenue Maurice Chevalier, 77833 Ozoir-La-Ferriere, Paris
Titeflex Europe S.A.S.
31 Rue Isidore Maille, Saint-Aubin-Les-Elbeuf, 76410
Hypertac S.A.
36 Rue Charles Heller, Vitry Sur Seine, F-94400
Smiths Detection France S.A.S.
114, Rue Jules Ferry, B.p.35, Deville-Les-Rouen, 76250
John Crane France S.A.S.
T I S A (France)

GERMANY
Am Zirkus 2, Berlin, 10117
John Crane Filtration Technologies GmbH
Gewerbestraße 15 a, Graben, 86836
Gastite Systems Deutschland GmbH
Im Herzen 4, Wiesbaden, 65205
Smiths Detection GmbH
Smiths Detection Germany GmbH
Neckarweg 3, Vellmar, 34246
Herkules Holding GmbH
Seebach GmbH
Reepschlager Str., 10B, Lubeck, 23556
Flexschlauch Produktions GmbH
Tolzer Strasse, 15 82031, Grunwald
Zamor KG
Ulrichsberger Strasse 17, Deggendorf, 94469
Hypertac GmbH
Werner–Von–Siemens – Str.6, Fulda, 36041
John Crane GmbH

GREECE
3 Stratigou Tobre Street, Municipality Of Agia Paraskevi, Athens, 153 42
John Crane Hellas – Engineered Sealing Systems Monoprosopi Epe

GUERNSEY
Level 5, Mill Court, La Charroterie, St Peter Port, GY1 1EJ
Smiths Group Insurance Limited

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary
Ordinary

Quotas

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Shares

Ordinary
Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Shares
Ordinary

Ordinary
Ordinary

Shares

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

100

100

100

100

100
99

100

100

100

100

100

100
100

100

100

100
100

100
100

100

48

100

100

100

100

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSUBSIDIARY UNDERTAKINGS

183

Name

Security 

Direct (%)

Total (%)

HONG KONG
4008-4009, 40/F, One Pacific Place, 88 Queensway
Smiths Interconnect Group (HK) Limited
Smiths Interconnect Hong Kong Co Limited
Smiths Detection Hong Kong Limited

HUNGARY
2040 Budaors, Gyar U. 2
John Crane Hungary Kft

INDIA
D-196 Okhla Industrial Area, Phase-1, New Dehli, 110020
Plenty India Limited
No 11, 1st Phase, Peenya, Industrial Area, Bangalore, 560058
John Crane Sealing Systems India Private Limited
Smiths Interconnect India Private Limited
No 38, Kiadb Industrial Area, Bangalor, 561203
STS Titeflex India Pvt Ltd
Shirwal, Maharashtra 412801
Seebach Filter Solutions India Pvt Ltd
Vardhman Crown Mall, Unit No. 300 3rd Floor, Sector 19 Dwarka, New Delhi 110075
Smiths Detection Systems Private Limited

INDONESIA
Cilandak Commercial Estate Bldg 401A, Ji. Kko Cilandak, Jakarta, 12560
PT John Crane Indonesia

IRELAND
Riverside One, Sir John Rogerson’s Quay, Dublin, D02X576
John Crane Pension Trustee (Ireland) Ltd
Deloitte Offices, 6 Lapps Quay, Cork
Smiths Detection Ireland Limited
T53/54, Shannon Industrial Estate, Shannon, Co. Clare
John Crane (Ireland) Limited

ITALY
Via Da Bissone 7A, Genova, 16153
Hypertac SpA
Via Giotto 3, Muggio, 20835
John Crane Italia SpA
Smiths Detection Italia srl
Smiths Group Italia Srl

JAPAN
1-1-1 Uchisaiwaicho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Smiths Detection Japan Gk
2222, Kamitoyama Ritto City, Ritto-Shi, Shiga-Ken
John Crane Japan Inc

KAZAKHSTAN
Atyrau Region, Gatyrau, Station K Arabathan, House Production Site 14, 060000
John Crane Kazakhstan

KOREA, REPUBLIC OF
Migeundong, Westgate Tower 15F, 70 Chungjeong-Ro, Seodaemun-Gu, Seoul
John Crane Korea Co Ltd

MALAYSIA
207, Jalan Tun Razak, Suite 13.03, 13th Floor, Menara Tan & Tan, Kuala Lumpur, 50400
Flexible Ducting Malaysia Sdn Bhd (in liquidation)
Menara LGB, 1, Jalan Wan Kadir Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur, WPKL
John Crane Malaysia Sdn Bhd
Smiths Detection Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary 

Ordinary

Ordinary Shares

Ordinary
Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Class A Equity Shares;  
Class B Equity Shares

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary; Ordinary B; Ordinary D; Series C

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary
Quota Value of Shares
Ordinary

Cash Contribution

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary
Ordinary

100
100
100

100

100

100
100

100

100

100

99

100

100

100

100

100
100
100

100

70

100

100

100

100
100

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSUBSIDIARY UNDERTAKINGS

184

Name

Security 

Direct (%)

Total (%)

MEXICO
679, Poniente 152, Vallejo Delegacion Azcapotzalco, Mexico City, 2300
Industrias John Crane Mexico S.A. de C.V.
Av. Primero De Mayo Lote 3 Edificio 1B, Prologis Park, Reynosa, 88780
Tutco De Mexico SRL de CV
Carretera Ciudad Victoria Matamoros, Km.173+600, Solonia San Fernando Centro, 
Tamaulipas, San Fernando, CP 87600
John Crane Sociedad De Responsibilidad Limitada De Capital Variable
Carretera Libre Antiguo Camino Tijuana 20221-B, Fideicomiso el Florido, Tijuana, 
Baja California, 22234
Smiths Interconnect Mexico S. de Rl de C.v.
Paseo De La Reforma 505, Col, Cuauhtemoc, 6500, Ciudad De Mexico
Smiths Detection Mexico S. de Rl de C.v.

Series A; Series B

Ordinary

Ordinary

Equity Quotas

Partes Sociales

NETHERLANDS
Abraham van Stolkweg 118, Rotterdam, 3041 JA
Amnitec BV
Bergen 9 – 17, Barendrecht, Zuid, 2993LR
John Crane Holland BV
Smiths Detection Benelux BV
Buckingham House, 361-366 Buckingham Avenue, Slough, Berkshire,  
SL1 4LU, England
Smiths Group Holdings Netherlands BV 
Hydrograaf 25, PO Box 442, 6900 Ak Zevenaar, Duiven, 6921 RS
Indufil BV

NEW ZEALAND
Deloitte, Level 18, 80 Queen Street, Auckland 1010
Smiths Detection New Zealand Limited

PERU
Av. Guillermo Dansey 2124, Urbanizacion Industrial Conde, Lima
John Crane Peru Sac

POLAND
1327, ul. Bielska, Poland, 43-374 Buczkowi
John Crane Poland Sp Z O.O.

PUERTO RICO
654 Plaza, Suite #933, 654 Munoz Rivera Ave, San Juan, 00918
John Crane Caribe Ltd

RUSSIAN FEDERATION
Room 501, Floor 5, bld.1, 5-104 Octyabrskaya Emb., St. Petersburg 193079
Smiths Detection Rus LLC
B.savvinsky Per, D.11, Moscow, 119435
LLC John Crane Rus

SAUDI ARABIA
Dammam Industrial City, Dammam, 3243
John Crane Saudi Arabia Ltd
Building 7, Zone A, Airport road, Business Gate, P.O Box Riyadh 11683, 93597
Smiths Detection Saudi Arabia Ltd

SINGAPORE
6 Shenton Way, OUE Downtown #26-00, 068809
John Crane Singapore Pte Limited
20, Pasir Panjang Road, #13-26 Mapletree Business City, 117439
Smiths Connectors Asia Pte. Ltd.
Smiths Detection (Asia Pacific) Pte. Ltd

SLOVAKIA
Dvorakovo nabrezie 10, Bratislava-mestska cast Stare Mesto, 811 02
John Crane Slovakia SRO

Ordinary

Ordinary
Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

Common Shares

Ordinary

Common Shares

Ordinary

Ordinary 

Ordinary

Shares

Ordinary

Ordinary
Ordinary

Ordinary

100

100

100

100

100

100

100
100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100
100

100

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSUBSIDIARY UNDERTAKINGS

185

Name

Security 

Direct (%)

Total (%)

SOUTH AFRICA
2, Jansen Road, Nuffield Industrial Sites, Springs Gauteng, 1559
Flexibox (Pty) Limited
John Crane Pty Ltd

SPAIN
Cemento 1, Torrejon De Ardoz, Madrid
John Crane Iberica SA

SWEDEN
Knivsta, 74180
Habia Teknofluor AB
Teknofluor Holding AB
Faltspatsgatan 4, Se-421 30 Vastra Frolunda
John Crane Sverige AB

SWITZERLAND
Hohenrainstrasse 10, 4133 Pratteln
John Crane (Switzerland) AG

TAIWAN
324-4, Fong-Jen Road, Renwu District, Kaohsiung City 814
John Crane Taiwan Co Ltd.

Ordinary
Ordinary

Ordinary

Shares
Shares

Ordinary

Ordinary

Ordinary

THAILAND
9/311, 31st Floor, Um Tower, Ramkhamhaeng Road, Suanluang District, Bangkok
John Crane (Thailand) Limited
99/3 Moo 5, Kingkaew Road, Tambol Rajatheva, Amphoe Bangplee,  
Samutprakarn Province, 10540
Smiths Detection (Thailand) Limited

Ordinary; Pref

Pref; Ordinary

TUNISIA
Zone Industrielle Route De Khniss, Monastir, 5000
Smiths Connectors Tunisia SARL

TURKEY
Istanbul Sariyer, Huzur Mahallesi, Ahmet Bayman Caddessi, Dis,  
Reklamcilik Apt No:17-19/1
John Crane Endustriyel Sizdirmazlik Sistemleri Ltd

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Building B10, Industrial Mussaffah, M44, Sector 15, Abu Dhabi
Smiths Detection Security Systems Llc
Dubai Airport Free Zone, PO Box 48225, Building No. 8WA (West Side), 401, Dubai
Smiths Detection Middle East Fze
S20113, Jebel Ali Free Zone, 61040
John Crane Middle East Fze

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
51 Growth Road, Laconia, NH, 03246
Lakes Region Tubular Products Inc.
116, Pine Street, 3rd Floor, Suite 320, Harrisburg, PA 17101
Tutco, Llc
180 Van Riper Avenue, Elmwood Park, NJ 07407
Kreisler Industrial Corp
Kreisler Manufacturing Corp
208 S. Lasalle Street, Suite 814, Chicago, IL, 60604
John Crane International Inc.
815 Forestwood Drive, Romeoville, IL 60446
United Flexible, Inc.
US Hose Corp
2801 Red Dog Lane, Knoxville, TN 37914
Fulton Bellows LLC
Corporation Service Company, 251 Little Falls Drive, Wilmington, DE, 19808
United Flexible Technologies, Inc.

Ordinary

Ordinary

Shares

Shares

Ordinary

Common Stock

Ordinary

Common Stock
Common Stock

Common Shares

Common Stock
Common Stock

Limited Liability Company Interests 

Common Stock

100
100

100

100
100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

49

100

100

100

100

100
100

100

100
100

100

100

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSSUBSIDIARY UNDERTAKINGS

186

Name

Security 

Direct (%)

Total (%)

The Corporation Trust Company, 1209 Orange Street, Wilmington, DE, 19801
Asset And Intelligence Management Services, LLC
Flexible Technologies, LLC
Flex-Tek Group (US) LLC
John Crane Group, Llc
John Crane Inc
John Crane USA, Inc
MDII Investments LLC
Powercam-Houdaille, Inc.
Royal Metal Products, LLC
Smiths Business Information Services, Inc.
Smiths Detection International, Llc
Smiths Detection US Holdings, LLC
Smiths Detection US, Llc
Smiths Group Services Corp.
Smiths Interconnect Americas, Inc.
Smiths Interconnect, Inc.
Smiths US Innovation LLC
CT Corporation System, 9 Capitol Street, Concord, NH 03301
Smiths Tubular Systems-Laconia, Inc
CT Corporation System, 155 Federal Street, Suite 700, Boston, MA 02110
Titeflex Commercial, Inc.
One Corporate Center, Hartford, CT 06103-3220
Titeflex Corporation
The Corporation Trust Company of Nevada, 701 S Carson Street, Suite 200,  
Carson City, NV, 89701
Smiths Detection Inc

VENEZUELA
Carretera Vía A Perijá, Km 8 ½, Avenida 50, Local N° 185-72,  
Zona Industrial El Silencio, Maracaibo, 4001
John Crane Venezuela CA

Ordinary Stock
Ordinary Shares
Ordinary
Ordinary
Common; Preferred
Ordinary 
Ordinary
Common Shares
Ordinary
Common Stock
Equity Interests
Limited Liability Company Interests
Ordinary
Common Stock
Common Stock
Common Stock
Ordinary

Ordinary Shares

Ordinary

Ordinary

Common Stock

Class A; Class B; 
Common

ASSOCIATES

RUSSIAN FEDERATION

28, Academica Vedeneeva Street, Perm, Permskiy Region, 614038

Llc John Crane Iskra

Ordinary

100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100

100

100

100

100

100

50

Overseas branches
The Company does not operate through any branches. Some Group subsidiary companies have established branch operations outside  
the UK.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS2022

23 September 

20 October

21 October

28 October

16 November 

18 November

187

2023 
(provisional)

24 March

6 April

11 April

25 April

17 May

31 July

 September

Dividends
Since November 2019 Smiths no longer issues dividend cheques. In 
order to have your dividends paid directly to your bank or building society 
account please contact Equiniti for a copy of the Bank Mandate Form, 
or register your nominated bank or building society account by visiting 
www.shareview.co.uk. 

By registering your account all future dividends will be paid securely 
by direct credit on the dividend payment date. 

Alternatively, Smiths offers a Dividend Reinvestment Plan. For more 
information please visit our website or contact Equiniti.

Ordinary shares
The market value of an ordinary share of the Company on 31 March 1982 
for the purposes of capital gains tax was 136.875p (taking into account the 
sub-division of 50p shares into 25p shares on 14 January 1985 and the sub-
division and consolidation of 25p shares into 37.5p shares on 18 June 2007).

SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION

Financial calendar

Announcement of FY2022 Results

Dividend Ex-Dividend Date

Dividend Record Date

Last DRIP Election Date

Annual General Meeting

Dividend Payment Date

Announcement of FY2023 Interim Results

Interim Dividend Ex-Dividend Date

Interim Dividend Record Date

Last DRIP Election Date

Interim Dividend Payment Date

FY2023 Financial Year End

Announcement of FY2023 Results

Registered Office
Smiths Group plc 
4th Floor 
11-12 St James’s Square 
London SW1Y 4LB, UK

+44 (0)20 7004 1600

Incorporated in England & Wales 
Company No. 137013

www.smiths.com

Registrars
Our share register is maintained by Equiniti. If you have any questions about 
your Smiths shares, please contact Equiniti at: www.shareview.co.uk. 

Telephone:  
T: + 44 (0)371 384 2943 (in the UK) 
Textel: 0870 384 2255 
Lines open 8:30am to 5:30pm (UK time),  
Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays in England and Wales)

Write to: Equiniti Limited, Aspect House 
Spencer Road, Lancing, West Sussex, BN99 6DA

Equiniti offer the Shareview portfolio service to investors; visit  
www.shareview.co.uk to register for an account. Through Shareview 
you can access information about your investments, including balance 
movements and indicative share prices, as well as practical help about 
transferring your shares or updating your personal details. 

Annual General Meeting (AGM)
The 2022 Smiths Group plc AGM will be held at 11.00am on Wednesday 16 November 2022 at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, 100 Bishopsgate, 
London EC2P 2SR. The Notice of AGM is a separate document which is sent out at least 20 working days before the AGM and made available on our 
website. If you are in any doubt as to what action you should take in relation to the resolutions being proposed at the AGM, you are recommended to 
consult your stockbroker, bank manager, solicitor, accountant or other independent professional adviser authorised under the Financial Services and 
Markets Act 2000. The meeting will be webcast and may be viewed online by registering on our website www.smiths.com.

Shareholders who are unable to attend the AGM in person are encouraged to vote their shares by appointing a proxy and issuing voting instructions. 
Electronic and paper proxy appointments and voting instructions must be received by the Company’s Registrar not later than 48 hours before the 
AGM is held in order to be valid. Shareholders who are not CREST members can appoint a proxy and vote online by visiting www.sharevote.co.uk. 
CREST members, CREST personal members and other CREST-sponsored members should consult the CREST Manual or their sponsor or voting 
service provider for instructions on electronic proxy appointment and voting.

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS188

Forward-looking statements 
This report contains certain forward-looking statements. They appear 
in a number of places throughout this document and include statements 
regarding the intentions, beliefs and/or current expectations of Smiths 
Group plc (the 'Company') and its subsidiaries (together, the 'Group') and 
those of their respective officers, directors and employees concerning, 
amongst other things, the results of operations, financial condition, 
liquidity, prospects, growth, strategies and the businesses operated 
by the Group. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use 
of forward-looking terminology, including terms such as "believes", 
"estimates", "anticipates", "expects", "forecasts", "intends", "plans", 
"projects", "goal", "target", "aim", "may", "will", "would", "could" or 
"should" or, in each case, their negative or other variations or comparable 
terminology. By their nature, these statements involve uncertainty and are 
subject to known and unknown risks, including, without limitation, those 
discussed under the section titled ‘Principal risks and uncertainties’ in this 
report. Future events and circumstances can cause performance, results 
and developments to differ materially from those expressed, implied or 
anticipated. The past business and financial performance of the Group is 
not to be relied on as an indication of its future performance. The forward-
looking statements reflect knowledge and information available at the 
date of preparation of this document and, unless otherwise required by 
applicable law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise 
these forward-looking statements. Undue reliance should not be placed 
on such forward-looking statements. Nothing in this document should 
be construed as a profit forecast or be interpreted to mean that future 
earnings per share of the Company will necessarily match or exceed its 
historical published earnings per share. The Company and its Directors 
accept no liability to third parties. This document contains brands that are 
trademarks and are registered and/or otherwise protected in accordance 
with applicable law. Some of the products described in these materials 
are under development and are not available for sale, and we make no 
definitive claims about the final features or benefits of these products. 

01 OVERVIEW02 STRATEGIC REPORTSMITHS GROUP PLC ANNUAL REPORT FY202203 GOVERNANCE04 FINANCIAL STATEMENTSThis report was printed by Pureprint Group 
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SMITHS GROUP PLC   
4th Floor
11-12 St James’s Square
London SW1Y 4LB, UK
+44 (0)20 7004 1600
www.smiths.com
LSE: SMIN
ADR: SMGZY

TO VIEW THIS REPORT ONLINE
go to www.smiths.com/investors