Matalan strengthens senior team with two new hires

Value fashion and homeware retailer Matalan has appointed James Dorling as Director of Property and Keith Down has joined its board as Non-Executive Director and Chair of the Audit Committee.

Dorling brings extensive experience in property management and leadership, having held positions at Gymshark, Wilko, Walgreens and Walmart, following a 10-year property career at Tesco.

James Dorling, newly appointed Director of Property at Matalan

In his new role, he will be responsible for overseeing Matalan’s network of over 220 stores in the UK, while also contributing to the company's wider transformation strategy.

Down has joined Matalan’s board following Paul Copley’s decision to step down. He has vast experience in retail and finance, bringing valuable expertise from leadership roles at Selfridges Group, Dunelm, Tesco and Topps Tiles.

Karl-Heinz Holland, Matalan’s Executive Chair, said: "We are thrilled to welcome James and Keith to the business, who both join with relevant expertise that will prove highly valuable as we continue to execute our strategic plan.

"I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Paul Copley for his significant contribution to the business, particularly during his time as Chair."

Last week saw Matalan launch its new Christmas ad under its new ‘We Get It, We’ve Got You’ platform. Created by McCann, the 30-second commercial "unwraps the fabulous chaos of family life" while highlighting Matalan’s finest Christmas party wear and festive holiday essentials.