DAVID HENNESSEY

Source: Wilko

David Hennessy

Wilko has appointed David Hennessy as IT director.

Hennessy was previously chief technology officer at online health and wellbeing group Atida. He has also previously served as chief information officer at clothing brand Superdry and group IT director at Dixons Carphone.

“David has a wealth of experience in business technology and we’re looking forward to using his skills and knowledge as the brand continues to develop and undergo its transformative, omnichannel journey, of which IT is a cornerstone,” said Wilko CEO Jerome Saint-Marc.

Hennessy said: “Joining Wilko at this exciting time is a great opportunity, and I’m delighted to become part of a team that’s shaping the future of the business, while building on over 90 years’ experience on the Great British high street.”

Hennessy’s appointment follows that of Dave Murphy as Wilko finance director last month and former Post Office executive Amanda Jones as the business’s retail director in April.

The privately owned retailer’s latest full-year accounts, for the 12 months ended 30 January 2021, show sales fell 7.3% to £1.4bn as lockdowns hit high street footfall.

Wilko said in January this year up to 15 stores would close in 2022 unless landlords agreed to more favourable terms for the home, garden and fmcg retailer. The business had 414 stores at the time.