Wickes has appointed Tony Holdway as brand director.
Mr Holdway's has worked in retail for 25 years, with previous senior marketing and commercial roles at leading high street chains Woolworths, Mothercare and WHSmith. He joins Wickes from Shop Direct where he was brand director, developing the Litllewoods business.

Wickes marketing director Rob Murray said: "We are delighted to have Tony on board to support our brand growth at such a critical period. We have worked hard as a team to help the brand go from strength to strength at a difficult time for the retail sector. In addition, we have invested heavily in the right people to help achieve this goal, and we are confident that Tony will lead the way in the continuing success of the Wickes brand."

In addition to his role at Wickes, Mr Holdway retains his position as a non-executive director of Focal Point Coaching and Negotiation, which assists retailers and brands in improving their efficiency and net profit.

He said: "I am delighted to be joining Wickes at such an exciting time for the business. We have already seen a number of new products and ranges successfully launched throughout 2010 and this will continue in 2011."