Carpetright founder Lord Harris is to retire from the business at the end of the month after it appointed a new chairman.

Mitchells & Butlers non-executive chairman Bob Ivell will take on the same role at Carpetright on November 1.

Harris called off his retirement earlier this year amid volatile trading and management changes.

Carpetright boss Darren Shapland left suddenly and former HMV and Coral executive Wilf Walsh became chief executive in July.

Ivell is also a senior independent director at both Britvic and Aga Rangemaster and was previously chairman of David Lloyd Leisure, Park Resorts Group and Next Generation Clubs Pacific.  

He has more than 30 years’ experience in the food and beverage industry, holding executive roles with Regent Inns, Scottish & Newcastle and Whitbread.

Lord Harris said: “I am delighted we have found a very able and experienced chairman who brings tremendous skills and experience from his previous executive and non-executive roles. After 57 years in the carpet business, it is time for me to focus on my other interests and I retire from the board confident that I leave behind a strong leadership team.”

Ivell said: “I am looking forward to working with the board as we seek to drive a sustained recovery in profitability and to build on the strong legacy being left by Lord Harris.”

Walsh thanks Harris for his contribution since founding Carpetright in 1988.

Carpetright will issue its interim results on December 15.