JD Sports Fashion announces a strategic appointment, enhancing their board with a key US perspective.
- Prama Bhatt, former Chief Digital Officer at Ulta Beauty, joins as a non-executive director on September 23.
- Bhatt brings over two decades of expertise in multi-channel retailing and digital commerce.
- This appointment accompanies JD Sports’ recent $1.1bn acquisition of US retailer Hibbett.
- The expansion aims to boost JD Sports’ North American revenues and market share.
JD Sports Fashion has strategically enhanced its board with a significant appointment, welcoming Prama Bhatt as a non-executive director. This move underscores the company’s commitment to strengthening its presence and influence within the United States market, effective from September 23.
Prama Bhatt, who recently served as the Chief Digital Officer at Ulta Beauty, brings to the table a wealth of knowledge and experience, particularly in navigating the multi-channel retail landscape. Her extensive career also includes critical roles in leading digital and ecommerce teams at renowned companies like Kenneth Cole and Toys R Us.
In her new role, Bhatt will be a pivotal member of JD’s nominations committee, the remunerations committee, and the board of its US subsidiary, Genesis Holdings. This aligns with the company’s recent external evaluation and strategic recommendations to incorporate US-based insights into board deliberations.
JD Sports’ decision to bring Bhatt on board follows its acquisition of US sports retailer Hibbett, finalized in July. The $1.1 billion deal significantly impacts JD’s revenues in North America, projected to increase the region’s revenue contribution from 32% to 40% annually.
Andrew Higginson, chair of JD, emphasized the importance of this strategic direction, stating that Bhatt’s “deep understanding” of the US retail sector will contribute valuable perspectives to the board’s discussions. This appointment reflects JD Sports’ broader strategy to augment its influence and market share in North America.
Prama Bhatt’s appointment is a pivotal step for JD Sports in its strategic US market expansion.
