JD Sports Fashion has appointed Peter Agnefjäll as chair of the board, with the former-president of Ikea joining the sports retailer on 01 September 2026.
Agnefjäll is an internationally recognised retail leader with extensive experience as a chair and non-executive director. He built his career over almost two decades at Ikea Group, rising to president and CEO between 2013 and 2017. He oversaw a period of growth, market expansion and digital transformation for the furniture giant.
Agnefjäll will succeed Darren Shapland, who has served as interim chair since the 2026 Annual General Meeting on 21 July 2026. Shapland will remain on the board as an independent director.
“On behalf of the board I am delighted to welcome Peter as chair. He brings an exceptional combination of international retail leadership, board experience and a proven track record of overseeing growth and transformation in complex global businesses,” said Shapland.
“His experience and perspective will be invaluable to JD’s board and executive team as the group continues to execute against its strategic objectives and capitalise on the significant opportunities ahead.”
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Agnefjäll served as chair for Dutch-Belgian food retail holding company Ahold Delhaize from 2021 to 2025, having previously been vice chair and non-executive director. He is currently non-executive director of multinational communications firm WPP and was a member of the board of directors at branded consumer goods company Orkla from 2018 to 2026. Agnefjäll had previous non-executive roles at footwear retailer Deichmann and Wizz Air.
He commented: “JD has built a powerful global position in sports and sport-inspired fashion, with a unique connection to its core customer, strong brand partnerships, carefully curated and vibrant stores, and a clear, defined omni-channel strategy.
“I am excited to be joining the Group and look forward to working with the Board and leadership team to leverage JD’s strengths, deepening its roots in international markets and affirming its position in a rapidly evolving retail landscape.”
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