Poundland Appoints New Trading and Finance Directors

Discount retailer Poundland has appointed two new directors: Tim Bettley and Dave Williams.

Bettley joins Poundland in January in the role of trading director and Williams has already joined as chief financial officer.

Tim Bettley will be responsible for the trading, stock control and marketing teams and joins Poundland from The Original Factory Shop where he is commercial director.  He has experience in the value and retailing sector and previously worked for Morrisons and as managing director of Peacocks.

Dave Williams joined Poundland in August, replacing Roy Ellis who has moved to Pepkor Europe - Poundland's parent company - but this had not been announced until today. He previously held chief financial officer roles at Focus DIY, JBB, JD Sports, TJ Hughes and the Original Factory Shop.

Williams' role also involves overseeing the Poundland property team, which is now led by Ben Wall - formerly head of portfolio management - who has taken on the role of business development director following the departure of Andy Garbutt. 

Both directors will report to Barry Williams, managing director of Poundland UK & Ireland.  

Barry Williams said: “These are two important hires to complete my top team,” 

“And it’s no coincidence that both have value retail and clothing experience. That’s because we’re building a new Poundland that’s extending our promise of amazing value every day into a broader range of products.

“I’m also pleased to provide Ben with an opportunity to step up – under Andy Garbutt’s leadership Ben has helped deliver a market-leading 60 per cent reduction in property costs.

“I know Ben will continue that drive to ensure landlords better understand the new normal on high street occupancy costs.

“I’d also like to thank Andy for his four years service to Poundland – we’re a business better placed to win on a changing high street, because of his efforts.”

Poundland is looking to position the business as a general merchandise, FMCG and clothing business and, over the last year, a third of its stores have installed Pep&Co clothing concessions.

Source : Insight DIY

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