Pets at Home has appointed Sarah Pollard as its new chief financial officer (CFO) and executive director.

Pollard succeeds Mike Iddon as the brand’s CFO, who is stepping down from the role after nine years. The exec is set to remain in his position until spring 2026.

Pollard joins the pet business after serving as CFO of consumer goods firm PZ Cussons since 2021.

Prior to this, she held multiple roles at food manufacturing supply Nomad Foods, serving as its group finance director from 2017 to 2020 and its CFO – Birds Eye (UK and Ireland) from 2015 to 2017.

The executive also worked as Tesco’s finance director – Extras stores from 2007 to 2009.

The pet retailer is set to announce the precise date of Pollard’s appointment in due course.

Pets at Home executive chair Ian Burke said: “On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Mike for the contribution he has made since joining the business in 2016.

“During his tenure, consumer revenues have more than doubled to £2bn and we have returned over £500m to shareholders, with Mike leading the business with calmness and a relentless focus on high standards.”

Pollard said: “I am thrilled to be joining Ian and the team at Pets. It is a truly purpose-led business, operating in a robust sector, with a market-leading position from which it can create enduring value for shareholders, and financial success in which all stakeholders can share.

“I am looking forward to bringing my experience gained from a career in UK retail and consumer product public companies, to build on Mike’s strong legacy and help propel Pets forward on its next exciting chapter.”

The news comes after Pets at Home CEO Lyssa McGowan stepped down from the company earlier this month, as the brand slashed its annual profit outlook for the second time this year.

McGowan departed “with immediate effect,” with a search for her replacement already underway, the business told investors.

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