Matalan makes strategic leadership appointments to support its transformation strategy.
- James Dorling joins as property director, bringing extensive retail experience from Gymshark, Wilko, and more.
- Keith Down is appointed non-executive director and audit committee chair, enhancing the board’s financial expertise.
- These changes coincide with CEO Jo Whitfield’s recent departure and ongoing search for a new CEO.
- Executive chair Karl-Heinz Holland expresses confidence in new appointments aiding strategic goals.
Matalan has strategically appointed new leaders to bolster its management team and drive forward its transformation agenda. James Dorling, who has a robust background in retail real estate, has been named the property director. Previously the head of real estate at Gymshark, Dorling will oversee Matalan’s portfolio of over 220 UK stores. He steps into this role following his tenure at Wilko and his previous experience with Walgreens, Walmart, and Tesco, positioning him well to support Matalan’s strategic plans.
In a move to strengthen financial oversight, Keith Down joins as a non-executive director and chair of the audit committee. With a rich history of financial leadership at Selfridges, Dunelm, and Go-Ahead Group, Down’s expertise is expected to be instrumental. He will also maintain his existing board positions at Tortilla and Topps Tiles, underscoring his seasoned financial acumen.
These appointments follow the exit of former CEO Jo Whitfield, who left Matalan to pursue a portfolio career. During this transitional phase, Karl-Heinz Holland has stepped in as the executive chair, guiding the process to find Whitfield’s permanent replacement.
Holland expressed enthusiasm about these strategic hires, indicating that Dorling and Down bring vital expertise necessary for the company’s ongoing transformation. “We are thrilled to welcome James and Keith to the business,” Holland stated, recognizing the critical value they add as Matalan implements its strategic plan.
The integration of new leadership at Matalan is a calculated step to navigate its ongoing transformation successfully.
