The Original Factory Shop bolsters senior team as it targets growth

JD Sports group commercial director Dave Williams is joining the discount department store chain as chief financial officer and Tim Bettley, who parted company with supermarket giant Morrisons earlier this year, has been drafted in as commercial director.

Williams, who joins on December 7, replaces Martyn Waites and will be responsible for group accounting, commercial finance and payroll. He will report to The Original Factory Shop chief executive Tony Page.

For the past three years, Williams has been responsible for the turnaround of JD’s outdoor business and the commercial oversight of a number of subsidiary companies. He formerly served as finance boss at JJB, TJ Hughes and Focus Wickes.

Bettley, who fills the vacancy left by Dean Argent when he departed The Original Factory Shop in the spring, has worked across general merchandise and fashion retail throughout his career.

He was responsible for developing the clothing business at Morrisons, where he served as commercial director of non-food. But Bettley parted company with the grocer in April as part of sweeping changes that were made by boss David Potts following his arrival the previous month.

Bettley is also a former managing director at Peacock Group, where he oversaw its brand strategy as it moved to its current position as a value fashion chain, and held buying roles at Peacocks, Poundstretcher and Grattan.

‘Buzz’ in the business

Boss Page said the appointments were “fantastic” for The Original Factory Shop and its growth strategy.

He added: “Dave’s experience as chief financial officer at a wide range of retailers makes him ideally positioned to take on the role at this important time for the company and Tim’s strong familiarity with both the fashion and value markets will be a great asset for the business.

“The Original Factory Shop has positioned itself in what is a growing and dynamic sector in retail and it is well placed to capitalise on the opportunity this presents”

Dave Williams, The Original Factory Shop

“There is a real buzz throughout the business as we work towards our vision of becoming the nation’s best loved retailer.”

Williams said: “This is a great opportunity and an exciting time to be joining the business. The Original Factory Shop has positioned itself in what is a growing and dynamic sector in retail and it is well placed to capitalise on the opportunity this presents.

“I am delighted to be a part of shaping the future of the company and working with Tony and the team to further increase operating profits through improving sales, continued growth in store numbers, and driving operational and cost efficiencies.”