Ikea has appointed former Clas Ohlson chief executive Peter Jelkeby as its new UK and Ireland country retail manager.

Jelkeby joined Ikea as a part-time co-worker in the 1980s and worked his way up the ranks to deputy retail manager for its British business.

Peter Jelkeby Ikea

Peter Jelkeby joined Ikea in the 1980s as a part-time co-worker

Swedish rival Clas Ohlson recruited him in 2008. He had numerous roles including executive vice president, chief operating officer, director of operations and most recently acting chief executive. He left the company in 2017.

Jelkeby will take the reins from Javier Quiñones, who left the role after less than a year to start his new position as country retail manger in the US.

Jelkeby will be responsible for the continued growth and development of the UK and Ireland arm of Ikea.

He said: “I’m delighted to return to Ikea UK and Ireland at such a significant point in our history, as we evolve and renew our business to ensure Ikea’s continued success.

“Building on many years of solid growth, we are responding to the changing needs of our customers to secure an Ikea that is affordable, reaches more people, delivers excellent customer experience and is truly people- and planet-positive.”