Halfords has appointed David Wild as chief executive, with effect from August 4.

Wild will join the bikes and motor accessories retailer from Wal-Mart, where he is senior vice-president for new business development. He has held the role since January last year. Previously, he was president and managing director of Wal-Mart Germany. During his career, Wild spent 18 years at Tesco, lastly as group supply chain director.

The appointment follows the departure of Halfords chief executive Ian McLeod to join Australian retailer Coles in February.

Halfords chairman Richard Pym said: “We are delighted that David will be joining Halfords. He brings more than 20 years’ retailing experience, gained at two world-leading businesses and clearly has the skills and ability to move the company forward.”

He thanked director of trading Paul McClenaghan and finance director Nick Wharton, who have been acting joint managing directors since McLeod’s departure.

Wild said: “Halfords has some very attractive market positions and exciting opportunities for continued growth as well as sound defensive qualities. I am delighted to be joining such a strong team and I look forward to leading the company onto further success.”

In the year to March 28, sales at Halfords climbed 7.2 per cent to£797.4 million and like-for-likes rose 4.3 per cent. Pre-tax profits jumped 11.5 per cent to£90.2 million.