Sportswear retailer JD Sports has appointed Pentland Group Director Andy Rubin as its Non-Executive Director.
Rubin holds the position as both Director and Chairman of Pentland Brands which include sportswear chains Ellesse, Speedo and Hunter. Previously named as one of the best companies to work for in the UK, the Group currently owns a 57.47% stake in JD Sports.
Pentland‘s Director is also European Vice President of the World Federation of the Sporting Goods Industry.
Rubin‘s appointment comes at a crucial time as the retailer plans to expand its international footprint. His experience of brand development in Europe will be beneficial to JD Sports for this reason.
“He has experience of brand development outside of Europe, which will be of considerable use in supporting the continued successful global expansion of the group,” JD Sports said in a statement this morning.
“I am pleased to announce that Andy has agreed to join the board. His experience of managing and developing brands internationally will add to our board as we continue the international expansion of the JD brand” added Peter Cowgill, JD Sports’ Executive Chairman.
Competition is high in the sportswear retailing sector, with 9.7% of activewear consumers shopping at JD Sports over the last year, while 9.6% shopped at competitor Sports Direct. JD Sports will announce its full year results in April.
