Home improvement retailer Wickes Group has appointed Steven Blair to the role of chief retail and distribution officer, effective from March 10, 2025.

The newly-created position will see Blair report directly to David Wood, Group CEO, and join the Wickes Executive Board.

He brings a wealth of experience to Wickes, having held several senior roles across the retail and home improvement sectors.

Sponsored Video

Lauren Goodbrand of Kitchens International on winning the Kbsa Concept Designer Award 2024

 Joining from Tesco Group Plc, Blair has served as strategy and business planning director since 2023, following tenures as business support director and retail director.

Prior to this, he gained experience in the home improvement industry, having held operational leadership positions at B&Q and Tradepoint, and worked Marks and Spencer, where he started his career..

Group CEO David Wood commented on the new appointment: “We are delighted that Steven is joining Wickes to lead our Retail and Distribution operations, at such an exciting time for the business.

“His extensive retail leadership experience, passion for the sector and deep expertise in managing operations will add tremendous value to our team.

“I’m very much looking forward to working with him as we focus on delivering continued growth, sustained market outperformance and most importantly help our customers feel house proud.”

 Steven Blair added: “Wickes’ people-first culture and inspiring purpose have always set it apart, and I’ve long admired both.

“I am delighted to be joining the executive team at such an exciting time for the company.

“By putting colleagues and customers at the heart of everything we do, I’m confident we can achieve great things together, and I can’t wait to get started to help deliver the growth strategy.”

Following a decline, Wickes announced its design and installation business was stabilising last year, despite a challenging market.