Surfing specialist retailer and wholesaler Animal has appointed Kevin Keaney as its new chief executive.

Keaney has been with the business since 2007 when he joined as interim retail director. He has been interim chief executive since former chief John Stockton left the business in June.

He previously held senior roles at Sainsbury’s, Somerfield and Marks & Spencer.

Kearney said: “I feel privileged to be given this exciting opportunity to lead the team at Animal through the next stage of its growth and to fully realise the potential of this great brand.”

Animal now has 47 stores across the UK.

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