Name: Andy Hornby
Was: MD of George at Asda
Now: CEO of Coral


Career background: Following roles at Boston Consulting Group and Blue Circle Industries, Hornby joined Asda in 1996 as corporate director, working under the legendary Archie Norman. He later became managing director of Asda’s clothing arm George, before leaving the supermarket chain in 1999.

After Asda: Hornby moved into banking, joining Halifax as chief executive of retail. In 2001, he moved to HBOS, where he became chief executive of HBOS Retail. He was then promoted to chief operating officer of HBOS before becoming CEO in 2006. At the age of 38, the appointment made him the youngest-ever boss of a major high street bank. However, the banking crisis struck and he resigned from the role in 2008 after the company had to accept an £11.5bn cash injection from the government. He wasn’t out of action for long, though, and in 2009 he was named group chief executive of Alliance Boots, but left the role suddenly in March 2011, citing the need for “a few months’ break” after “an intense five years” at the helm of two major companies.

What is he doing now? Hornby was named chief executive of Coral - the UK’s third-largest bookmaker - in July last year. Confirming the role, Rob Templeman, chairman of Gala Coral, said: “We are delighted to welcome Andy on board. His retail track record and wealth of experience will make him a massive asset for Coral as we develop the business.”

What does the future hold?: Hornby has an impressive CV, with CEO experience in both the retail and banking sectors. Although he seems settled at Coral, it would be unwise to bet against him returning to grocery at some point in the future.

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