Maplin hires ex-Tesco director Robin Terrell as non-exec

The technology specialist hailed Terrell, who left the supermarket giant last October to build a portfolio career, as one of “the best brains in the industry” and said he would bring “extensive retail experience” to the business.

Terrell also holds non-exec roles at a clutch of other firms including retailers Wilko, Karen Millen and Amara, and bookmaker William Hill.

He previously served as vice-president and managing director for Amazon’s UK website for six years, before stints with John Lewis and House of Fraser.

Terrell initially joined Tesco as group multichannel director in February 2013.

He stepped in as managing director for its core UK business on an interim basis following the arrival of group boss Dave Lewis in September 2014, before becoming chief customer officer nine months later.

Maplin chairman Darren Shapland said: “It is a further validation of our strategy and ambitious plans for future growth that we can attract someone of Robin’s exceptional calibre and experience.

“As the retail landscape continues to change, it is imperative that we utilise the best brains in the industry.

“During Robin’s 18-year retail career, he has worked at the forefront of this change, including building successful multichannel businesses for some of the leading traditional brands and helping them become truly multichannel.”

Terrell added: “Maplin has a compelling strategy for future growth and is well placed to benefit from increasing consumer demand for connected homes.

“I look forward to working with the team at Maplin and helping them to realise in full the long term market opportunity.”