Poundstretcher has strategically enhanced its leadership team by recruiting seasoned professionals from Morrisons and other prominent retailers, aiming to fuel growth and innovation.
- Miles Foster, with 35 years of experience, joins as Group Operations Director, steering over 300 stores under CEO Andy Atkinson.
- Liz Harris, with almost 20 years at Morrisons, takes charge of retail operations, reinforcing operational excellence.
- Tony Fearon, former Morrisons Category Director, steps in as Group Commercial Director, focusing on commercial strategy.
- The leadership team expands further with key appointments including Annette Beecham and Mandy Fitzpatrick, bringing expertise from Home Bargains and B&M.
In a strategic move to propel its future ambitions, Poundstretcher has made significant additions to its leadership team, drawing seasoned professionals primarily from Morrisons. Miles Foster, boasting 35 years of influential experience at Morrisons, steps into the role of Group Operations Director. His extensive retail background positions him to effectively manage over 300 Poundstretcher stores while reporting directly to CEO Andy Atkinson, who himself transitioned from Morrisons to Poundstretcher post-acquisition by Fortress Investment Group earlier this year.
Foster’s entry into Poundstretcher is complemented by Liz Harris, appointed to oversee retail operations. Harris brings nearly two decades of experience from Morrisons, departing in 2022, which fortifies the operational backbone of Poundstretcher amidst its expansion endeavors. Her role is pivotal in maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness of in-store operations, enhancing customer experiences across the board.
Tony Fearon, joining as the new Group Commercial Director, is expected to play a critical part in shaping the commercial strategies of Poundstretcher. Formerly a Category Director at Morrisons, Fearon’s expertise in category management and commercial insights will drive the company’s competitive edge in the discount retail sector. He is joined by Kyle Storey, an ex-Poundland executive, who takes on the role of Head of Trading for FMCG, and Connor Black, a former Morrisons executive, now Head of Trading for Pets.
Expanding the leadership roster, Poundstretcher also welcomes Annette Beecham, leveraging her regional management experience from Home Bargains and B&M to enhance operational strategies. Additionally, Mandy Fitzpatrick joins to lead the loss prevention efforts, drawing from her success in similar roles at Poundland. The operational leadership is further strengthened with new area managers, Tim Dearing, Simon Smith, and James MacTavish, bringing valuable experiences from B&M, One Beyond, Morrisons, and Asda.
CEO Andy Atkinson expressed his enthusiasm, stating, ‘As we start this long and important journey, I am delighted that such a talented group of leaders have chosen to take the next step in their careers with us.’ The influx of experienced professionals aligns with Poundstretcher’s vision to support its colleagues and prioritize customers, marking a period of exciting growth and transformation for the retailer.
Poundstretcher’s strategic leadership appointments underline its commitment to growth and operational excellence in the competitive retail landscape.
