JD Sports finance boss Brian Small is to step down at the end of the month.

Small, who will retire on October 31, is being replaced by JD’s group finance director Neil Greenhalgh.

JD said it had been “in discussion with Brian for the past few months” over the decision.

Greenhalgh, who joined the sports fashion specialist in 2004, will take over as chief financial officer on November 1.

JD said Greenhalgh had been “deeply involved in all aspects” of its growth and rapid international expansion since joining the business.

The retailer added that he had been “increasingly fulfilling many aspects of his new role in more recent years in anticipation of an orderly succession”.

JD executive chairman Peter Cowgill said: “I would like to thank Brian for his valuable contribution and support over the last 15 years at JD and we wish him well in his retirement.

“I would also like to welcome Neil to the board of JD. The board is delighted that a planned succession has been achieved. Neil has already made a substantial contribution to JD and his promotion to the board will enable him to contribute still further.”