A Private Equity client of McLean’s had acquired a trainer and sports retailer that was based outside of the UK. The business in question caters for a wide audience, working with global brands such as Adidas, Nike, Puma and Converse. Aided by the significant private equity investment the business experienced rapid growth, expanding from a small single store to 180+ stores. Following this growth, it was felt that the business was getting close to store saturation and that fresh revenue channels should be looked at and added.
After discussions with McLean and the Private Equity team, it was decided that a Non-Executive Director industry expert from the sports and retail sector would be highly beneficial to the business and a search was initiated. The brief was for someone who had worked within the footwear and retail industry at a senior level, had a good understanding of the current trends and on one hand could work and advise with individual stores and regional managers, but also with the CEO and owners on a longer term strategy. Of particular interest also was someone with understanding of online retail and E-commerce.
Outcome: McLean carried out a broad and detailed search and selection exercise, engaging with a number of high-profile retail experts globally, this exercise resulted in a final short list of 4 individuals. Following meetings with the ExCo and PE firm the first-choice candidate was offered and subsequently accepted the role. The individual in question was a diverse hire, who offered on the ground operational skills combined with strong strategic industry thinking.
