Aussie retailer Target drafts in former Tesco clothing boss Richard Jones

Target, which has 300 stores and is one of Australia’s most famous retailers, has appointed Richard Jones, a former clothing director of Tesco and general merchandise director of Sainsbury’s, to become trading director. Jones will join Target from Irish retailer Dunnes.

The retailer has also hired Shop Direct’s furniture and homewares buying and merchandising director Damian Walton as homewares general manager.

Machin, a former Sainsbury’s and Asda director, became managing director of Target in April after moving from grocer Coles. Both businesses are owned by Wesfarmers.

Machin’s recruitment drive in the UK mirrors his own arrival at Coles in 2008.

He was part of a team, including former Halfords boss Ian McLeod and Asda saviour Archie Norman, parachuted in to conduct a turnaround.

Target managing director Stuart Machin said: “I’m delighted that Richard has decided to join Target Australia as trading director. He has brilliant experience, will be a great cultural fit and will play a crucial part in the turnaround of the business.”

He added: “Damian is a real talent and will play a critical role in building and improving our home business.”

Jones and Walton were both placed at Target by headhunter Clarity.