Holland & Barrett has appointed UK and Ireland chief executive Anthony Houghton as its new group chief executive officer as it ramps up next stage of growth, Retail Week can reveal.
He will take on the role from October, when the company’s new financial year begins.
Houghton has been with the retailer since September 2018 as group retail and property director, then as chief operating officer, and is currently chief executive of the UK and Ireland business.
Holland & Barrett said the appointment represents the company’s ”focus on stability and strong succession planning with a continued focus on the delivery of the company’s transformation strategy”.
Houghton will join the board and chairman Alex Gourlay will conintue in his role.
Houghton said: “I am delighted to have been offered the chance to take on the role of Group CEO at Holland & Barrett. It is with immense pride that I get the opportunity to lead a business with such a clear purpose: to support the health and wellness of our customers while fostering an environment where our colleagues and communities can flourish.
“What I’ve seen achieved by this business over the past seven years is a real testament to the incredible dedication and talent of our people. Their commitment every day, combined with the undoubted significant potential of the team, gives me great confidence that the investments we’ve made and the plans we’ve put in place will not only keep Holland & Barrett competitive in today’s market, but position us to lead for years to come.”
Holland & Barrett has also appointed Vineta Bajaj as the new group chief financial officer as Nick Allen pursues new opportunities.
Her experience spans the UK, Europe, US and Asia and she previously worked at Ocado Group, playing a key role in major international deals, mergers and acquisitions and capital raises.
Bajaj added: “I’m thrilled to be joining Holland & Barrett at such an exciting moment in its journey.
“As the business accelerates its transformation to become a global, digital-first wellness leader, I look forward to bringing my experience in omnichannel retail, e-commerce and AI & technology-led growth to support its bold ambitions. It’s a fantastic brand with a powerful purpose in a sector that’s only growing in relevance and impact.”
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