John Cleland has been appointed as the new CEO of specialist electronics retailer Maplin, it has been announced today.
Having previously worked for Asda, B&Q and the former supermarket chain Somerfield, Cleland has plenty of retail experience to help him in his new role, which he began on March 1st 2012.
Cleland was Asda‘s Managing Director of Retail between from 1993 to 2005, was then Commercial Director at home & DIY specialist B&Q for three years, before becoming Managing Director at Somerfield where he saw the grocer chain taken over by The Co-operative.
John Lovering, Chairman of Maplin, commented: “I am delighted that John is joining Maplin. We worked together at Somerfield and his all-round retailing and commercial skills are well known to me.
“He is a great leader and will be instrumental in implementing our growth plans on the High street and through multi-channels.
“As a highly profitable business with a strong balance sheet, we have a great opportunity to capitalise on the multiple growth opportunities ahead of us.”
Lovering only joined Maplin in September 2011, being recruited a few months after three senior directors, Steve Milner, Steve Lynas and Laurence Saunders, all left the company.
Immediately before joining Maplin, Cleland worked as CEO for health and fitness chain Esporta and during his time in charge he completed a turnaround of the business and oversaw a successful merger with Virgin Active.
Commenting on his appointment, Cleland said: “I have been very impressed by the strength of Maplin in sourcing innovative products, offering great in-store customer service and operating as a lean effective organisation.
“I am excited to be leading the firm as it looks to accelerate its growth and performance over the medium term.”
