Bicycle & car parts retailer Halfords has poached Pets at Home‘s Rob Swyer as its new Retail Director, it has been announced today.
Succeeding Kevin Thomas, who was Halfords‘ Operations Director with responsibility for the Retail division since March 2012, Swyer will join the retailer on April 3rd 2013.
Commenting on Thomas‘ departure, Halfords‘ CEO Matt Davies said: “I would like to thank Kevin for everything he has done for Halfords in his 18 years with us.
“He has played an invaluable role in expanding and enhancing our Retail division and stores.”
Swyer previously operated as Business Development Director of pet products retailer Pets at Home, a role he began in June 2010 following senior roles at grocer Asda and Mars and it is hoped that his “extensive experience” of retail will help strengthen sales.
At the start of the year, Halfords reported flat sales in the 15 weeks to January 11th 2013 and Davies outlined plans to improve the customer experience and build category opportunities in the year ahead.
Welcoming Swyer to his new role, Davies concluded: “I‘m delighted that Rob is joining us.
“He brings with him a wealth of experience from leading retail companies, coupled with a clear track record of implementing service-based retail offers that deliver great experiences for customers.
“I look forward to working with him on the next stage of Halfords‘ journey and particularly the expert help and service we provide in-store.”
