Matalan appoints Nigel Oddy as interim CEO to deliver growth strategy

Matalan has announced the appointment of Nigel Oddy as Interim CEO, following an extensive recruitment process, which has been underway over the past year.

He will be joining the business initially on an interim basis, with effect from 3 October 2022. Oddy has significant retail experience in senior leadership roles, most recently at New Look as CEO and formerly COO.

Oddy joined New Look in 2019, and strengthened the business through his three-year tenure, successfully navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. He helped to enhance the brand’s broad-appeal within the mid-market fashion sector, while leading the delivery of its omnichannel strategy.

From April 2017 to 2019, he was CEO at The Range, recognised as the UK’s fastest growing independent discount store retail chain and achieving record sales and improved margins through his tenure.

His career prior to 2017 spanned multiple other C-Suite positions at House of Fraser, Furnitureland and Blacks Leisure, as well as varied roles at Marks and Spencer in senior positions across retail, buying, merchandising and sourcing, providing him with a deep understanding and expertise in the retail industry.

Nigel’s priorities will focus on the delivery of the ongoing growth strategy; to drive performance in the core business; further build and develop omni-channel capabilities; unlock and deliver new growth opportunities; and reposition the brand.

Commenting on his appointment, Nigel Oddy, incoming Interim CEO of Matalan, said: “I am delighted to be joining Matalan and very much look forward to working with the wider team, which includes many long-established suppliers and franchise partners, as we progress with the execution of the growth strategy of this unique and iconic retail business.

“I have followed Matalan closely through my career and have admired its excellent value and quality focused credentials. I have noted its particular momentum in recent years in driving ahead with its mission to offer an excellent omnichannel experience for the millions of families it serves up and down the nation, and beyond.

“Matalan has a long standing and loyal customer base, and we need to continue to offer them, as well as new customers, what the business has been known for over the past 37 years – great product at fantastic prices. Now more than ever, value is so important to every shopper.”