The Federation of Independent Retailers (NFRN) has named Stuart Hale as its new chief operating officer.
Hale has over 18 years experience with electrical retailer Dixon’s, working his way up to programme manager in HR.
He has also worked at car giants Porsche as head of business and Jaguar Land Rover where he was global development manager with working experience overseas. His most recent role was as a strategy director for Hero Wellbeing Solutions.
Commenting on his appointment, Hale said: “I think there’s a huge challenge in terms of giving members value for money and for them to understand the value of their membership, but it’s a challenge I am looking forward to.
“The Fed hasn’t had a COO for a while, so it’s nice for the team to have someone in place and to know that we are all working together as a team, adding value to the business, and that their value is recognised.
READ MORE: NFRN elects Narinder Randhawa as national president
“The Fed is an unusual set up which I know will stretch me because of its different dynamic. I need to be the conduit between the members and the business and I have to have a foot in each camp.”
NFRN national president Narinder Randhawa added: “Stuart has all the experience and knowledge required to take us forward and put the organisation on an even stronger footing.
“We already have an excellent team in place, and with Stuart at the helm I am sure we will continue to grow as a business.
“I know he has some great ideas and plans to help us improve the service we provide to thousands of independent retailers across the UK and Ireland, and I wish him all the best in his new role.”
The news comes as the NFRN warned independent retailers should seize the sales opportunities offered by Waitrose’s decision to scrap its free newspaper to its customers.
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