// Matalan promotes interim buying and merchandising director Ben Smith to the newly created role of chief trading officer
// Smith has over 25 years of buying experience and has previously worked at Pep&Co, Primark and Peacocks
Matalan has appointed former Primark executive Ben Smith to the new role of chief trading officer with immediate effect.
Smith has been the retailer’s interim buying and merchandising director since March this year and will report into chief executive Jo Whitfield, Retail Week reported.
His appointment comes as buying director Toni Craig and sourcing and imports director David Mellett are to step down from their roles.
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Smith carries over 25 years of buying experience and has previously held several trading and buying roles at Primark before becoming a trading director at Pep&Co.
“Ben’s extensive and proven track record within retail and executive trading roles will benefit Matalan as we enter our next phase of growth with confidence,” said Whitfield.
“This new senior position will enable our focus on strengthening our commercial proposition and offering the great quality and value that our customers trust us for at Matalan.”
Last month, the retailer tapped former Co-op customer and community director Ali Jones for its newly created chief customer and omni-channel officer role.
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2 Comments. Leave new
It is gratifying to see that Matalan has appointed an experienced industry expert like Ben Smith as Chief Trading Officer. With over 25 years of buying experience and his previous roles at Primark and Pep&Co, Smith undoubtedly brings valuable knowledge and expertise. This appointment reflects Matalan’s commitment to strengthening its trading activities and enhancing the customer experience. I am curious to see how these new executives will impact the growth and success of the company.
You clearly work for Matalan with that statement