Managing director, Play.com

As managing director of the Jersey-based entertainment retailer, Rowe, has presided over the continual success of one of the few online entertainment retailers to seriously take on Amazon.

Play.com has retained its position in the top 10 of the IMRG/Hitwise Hot Shops List since 2006, a measure that is based on the retailer’s ability to attract visitors to its website.

Rowe has had a long career in music retail, having previously worked at HMV for 11 years until 2005 where he was on the board and responsible for its digital strategy including its early music download service.

Under him, Play.com has pushed far beyond music, DVDs and games into other categories such as books and clothing. It also launched its PlayTrade offer, giving customers the chance to buy and sell each other’s used products, effectively taking on eBay, in a move that proved particularly popular with customers during the recession.

In April this year, Play.com appointed former Apple director John Perkins as its chief executive, the first time the retailer has had anyone in this role. However, Rowe continues in his position.

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