Corporate member makes board changes

Corporate member Furniture Village, has strengthened its board of directors with several senior appointments from within. This follows on from the recent successful exit deal from its external shareholders, enabling it to become 100% family owned once again.

The key role changes at Furniture Village include:

Peter Harrison takes on the position of executive chairman, continuing to play a full-time role in both the strategic and operational activities of the business.

Peter’s son, Charlie Harrison, takes on the position of managing director. Completing over 20 years’ service across several areas of the business, his role will be to oversee all day-to-day operations at Furniture Village.

Nick Hipkiss who held several key operational roles within the business was previously HR director, also takes over responsibility for retail and now holds the main board position of commercial director.

Eamon Wynne, previously finance director looking after general operations, has been appointed chief financial officer.

Mike Broughton remains on the board as chief information officer, leading all business development and systems improvements.

After 20 years at Furniture Village Claudia Cooper has been appointed to the main board as multi-channel director. During the last few years, Claudia has led a highly successful move into multi-channel marketing and communications.

David Ayers who joined Furniture Village just over a year ago with a wealth of senior operational experience is appointed to the board as operations director, taking responsibility for both fulfilment and the all-important area of customer care.

After 20 years of service, Stephen Sing has been appointed director of customer experience with a far-reaching remit to ensure that Furniture Village offer the very best levels of customer service both before and after sales.

Company founder Peter Harrison commented: “Internal promotions may be typical in family businesses, but less common in those with around 1,200 employees, 55 stores, 17 fulfilment centres and an annual turnover of circa £400million. It is only possible because we have an exceptionally skilled and well-qualified team. Our senior team has consistently delivered year-on-year commercial growth whilst successfully delivering against our ambitious strategic plans.

“It is their combination of knowledge, experience and commitment that continues to ensure Furniture Village remains at the forefront of the UK furniture retail landscape and ready for its next phase of growth.”