Findel drafts in former Home Retail executive as non-exec director

Ball, who joins the Findel board with immediate effect, has also held senior positions at Littlewoods and is currently a non-exec at Ageas UK, part of the international insurance group Fortis.

Until July last year, Ball served as managing director of financial services at Argos owner Home Retail, having joined the business in 2004.

Findel chairman David Sugden said: “I am delighted to welcome Greg to the board. His extensive experience in retailing and financial services is directly relevant to our main business, Express Gifts, and I am sure will prove invaluable.”

The etailer, whose third biggest shareholder is Mike Ashley’s Sports Direct, has also appointed Eric Tracey as chairman of the audit and risk committee and Bill Grimsey as chairman of its remuneration committee.

The appointments come a month after Findel warned that its full-year profits would be lower than expected following a tough third quarter and the impact of currency movements.

Findel said it expects profits to be £2-3m lower than forecast after sales within its Express Gifts business, which accounts for 80% of profits, advanced 2% since the end September – less than the 2.7% growth recorded during its first half.