Dunelm Group CEO Nick Wilkinson announces retirement

LONDON: Nick Wilkinson, the Chief Executive Officer of Dunelm Group plc, has announced his decision to retire from his role and full-time executive life after seven years at the helm of the UK’s leading homewares retailer.

The Board of Dunelm will begin a comprehensive recruitment process to find Wilkinson’s successor, considering both internal and external candidates. An update on the process will be provided in due course. Wilkinson will remain in his role until a successor is appointed to ensure a smooth transition and continue driving business performance.

Dunelm remains committed to its strategy of unlocking its full potential as “The Home of Homes.” According to the company’s Interim Results, the business is making significant progress toward its medium-term goal of achieving a 10% market share.

“Nick has been a tremendous leader for Dunelm,” said Alison Brittain, Chair of Dunelm. “Amongst his many achievements, he has successfully guided the Group through a global pandemic, driven a step-change in the digital offer, established strategic capabilities across the business including in tech and data, and maintained the unique, entrepreneurial culture which makes Dunelm so special.”

Wilkinson expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead Dunelm, stating, “It is a real privilege to lead a business I love, and being a part of Dunelm’s growth story is as fulfilling now as it was on day one. However, personally, it feels like I’m approaching the right time to step away from full-time executive life.”

Wilkinson highlighted the company’s rich heritage and unique business model, emphasizing the quality of his colleagues. “Whilst this will be the final stage of my Dunelm journey, I’ve never been more confident in the opportunities ahead for this special brand. For now, it’s business as usual for me,” he added.

Dunelm will continue to focus on delivering long-term, sustainable growth for all stakeholders as the search for a new CEO begins.