JD Sports Fashion has strategically appointed Prama Bhatt as non-executive director, effective 23 September, a move seen to bolster their US market presence.
- Bhatt is set to join JD Sports’ nominations and remunerations committees, and the board of Genesis Holdings.
- With over 20 years in multi-channel retailing, Bhatt brings significant expertise to her new role.
- Her previous roles include leadership positions at Kenneth Cole and Toys R Us, enhancing her digital and ecommerce proficiency.
- The appointment aligns with JD Sports’ recent acquisition of Hibbett, a strategic expansion within the US market.
JD Sports Fashion has appointed Prama Bhatt, an experienced executive in digital retail, as a non-executive director, effective from 23 September. This appointment is a part of a strategic effort to strengthen JD Sports’ presence in the United States.
Bhatt’s role involves joining both the nominations and remunerations committees, as well as the board of Genesis Holdings, JD’s US subsidiary. Her extensive background in retail, notably her tenure as Chief Digital Officer at Ulta Beauty, positions her as a significant asset to JD Sports.
Bhatt has over two decades of experience in multi-channel retailing, having led digital and ecommerce teams at renowned establishments including Kenneth Cole and Toys R Us. Her expertise in digital strategy is expected to contribute significantly to JD Sports’ growth.
This strategic decision follows JD Sports’ acquisition of US sports retailer Hibbett in July, a deal valued at $1.1 billion (£878 million). The acquisition is an integral component of JD Sports’ expansion strategy, aimed at boosting North American revenues to £4.7 billion annually, thereby increasing its share of total sales from 32% to 40%.
Andrew Higginson, chair of JD, emphasized the thorough search process led by the nominations committee. He stated, “Prama brings a wealth of relevant experience to the board and, in particular, a deep understanding of the US retail landscape.”
Prama Bhatt’s appointment marks a pivotal step in JD Sports’ strategic expansion within the US market.
