Matalan names former Lidl and Co-op bosses as new chair and CEO

Holland joins from Takko Fashion, a European discount fashion retailer where he was executive chair and chief executive since January 2021. He will continue to be chair of the retailer. 

Holland previously worked at Lidl Group for 23 years, including six as chief executive, where he led the grocer’s expansion across Europe. Other previous roles include being the CEO of DIA Group, a network of 5,700 neighbourhood stores across Spain, Argentina, Brazil and Portugal.

Whitfield was most recently chief executive of the Co-op’s food division after holding senior leadership positions at Asda, leading the general merchandise business and serving as vice-president for operations, ecommerce and international at George. 

Whitfield reunites with Matalan after being its head of finance between 2002 and 2008.

Nigel Oddy, interim chief executive of Matalan, is set to step down on March 31 after carrying out the role for six months. 

Michael Phelps, partner at Tresidor Investment Management, one of the anchor investors in Matalan, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Karl-Heinz and Jo have joined Matalan to oversee the next stage of the company’s development.  

“Anyone close to the retail world will know the experience and focus that both Karl-Heinz and Jo will bring to their roles. They have a proven track record of making positive impacts in value retail and are the perfect fit for Matalan as it focuses on this next stage of its growth. They will provide strong leadership and know-how, which will help accelerate the transformation of the company.  

“I’d also like to thank Paul Copley and Nigel Oddy who acted as the company’s interim chair and chief executive respectively, throughout its recent strategic sales process, as well as Chris Mallon for his diligent efforts over the last few months. Nigel’s leadership was instrumental in steadying the ship during a challenging time for Matalan.”  

Holland said: “I have been a longstanding admirer of Matalan and believe it’s a business brimming with potential. I am very much looking forward to working with the new owners, Jo and its dedicated workforce to help it achieve its potential.”  

Whitfield said: “I am delighted to be joining and leading the business through its next exciting phase of growth and modernisation. Matalan is a much-loved brand for its 11 million loyal customers and together with colleagues, we will work to strengthen our offer and ensure we give them the great product and value that they and their families need. There are exciting times ahead for all of us that work in the business as we transform Matalan for the future.”  

Oddy added: “As I conclude my six months at Matalan, I am proud to have led the excellent teams here in ensuring a secured position for this unique and family-focused value retailer. Matalan is now shored up to deliver on its growth ambitions, with reduced debt and a clear strategy and I am pleased it will be in capable hands for this next chapter.”