Wilko names new chief executive

Wilko has promoted its group transformation director and online managing director, Jerome Saint-Marc, to become chief executive.

This marks the first time someone has held the role since Stuart Mitchell stepped down in 2012.

Meanwhile, Christian Ward has been appointed as retail director. He was previously chief commercial officer of Jollyes Pet Superstores, before holding leadership roles at Marks & Spencer, B&Q and Tuffnells.

Wilko’s commercial implementation director Alison Hands has also been promoted to trading director.

Company chair Lisa Wilkinson commented “As group transformation director, Jerome is already a high performing and widely respected member of our leadership team and has played a key role in both the development and delivery of our long-term strategy and programme of change.”

A statement explained that Saint-Marc will lead the company as it aims to transform into a more product-focused, omnichannel business.

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