Pets at Home appoints Graeme Jenkins as chief financial officer

Jenkins joins from Australian department store retailer Target Australia, where he has held the role of chief financial officer since 2013. He has also held positions including chief operating officer and finance director at Virgin Media Business and senior financial positions at FirstGroup and John Menzies.

He will become an executive director of the company and member of the board upon his starting date, which has yet to be announced.

Jenkins joins the pets specialist as a time of growth for the company. Last month the retailer reported underlying pre-tax profit up 11.8% to £45.2m in the 28 weeks to October 8. Total revenue increased 6% to £404.5m while like-for-likes advanced 1.8%.

Pets at Home chief executive officer Nick Wood said: “I am delighted to welcome Graeme to our team. Graeme brings a broad range of financial experience across consumer-facing and fast-moving businesses and has a solid operational focus.

“I would also like to thank Ian Kellett for his ongoing contribution to the growth and development of Pets at Home in his 10^th year as our group chief financial officer. Ian will transition fully into the role of chief executive of retail upon Graeme’s appointment, whilst ensuring an appropriate handover period.”

Jenkins said: “Pets at Home has an exciting future ahead, with a clear strategy for growth. As an engaged dog owner, I have a natural passion for the business and look forward to joining the team.”

Pets at Home Group will update the City with its third-quarter trading on 20 January 2016.