New chief executive for DFS

FURNITURE retailer DFS has appointed Ian Filby as the company’s new chief executive.

Doncaster-based DFS was sold to private equity firm Advent in April for £500m and the new owners have been on the hunt for a CEO to work with the existing team of chairman Richard Baker, chief operating officer Jon Massey and finance director Bill Barnes.

Mr Filby joins DFS on the back of 30 years of retail experience with Alliance Boots where he held roles including retail brand development director and trading director. He was also interim CEO for the Nectar loyalty card scheme.

DFS chairman Richard Baker said: “Having worked with Ian at Boots for four years, I have had first-hand experience of his skills and capabilities.

“Ian is perfectly suited to the role of CEO of DFS. His core strengths are in the areas of marketing and brand development, product and range management, store format development as well as online, which are all key elements of the DFS business model.”

Mr Filby said: “I am delighted to be joining the DFS team. I am looking forward to both leading the company through its next period of growth and to working with Richard once again.

“DFS is a strong brand with a unique culture and I believe that it has an exciting future ahead.”