Adventure apparel retailer Kathmandu has strengthened its board with the appointment of a new non-executive independent director.
Christine Cross, who has previously worked as an executive at Tesco plc, joins the board this week and will assist the company to achieve its expansion targets in 2013.
Commenting on Cross' appointment, Kathmandu chairman James Strong said Cross’ expertise would be invaluable as Kathmandu furthered the development of its global strategy.
He added that future developments will focus initially on the realignment of its UK business and accelerated online sales growth via both Kathmandu’s own platform and global marketplace websites.
“Her appointment further enhances the skill set of the Board as it seeks to establish Kathmandu as a significant global presence in the outdoor travel and adventure market,” he said.
Previously, at Tesco plc, Cross was variously responsible for Own Brand development, establishment of the global sourcing function and finally business development focused on international and small format expansion.
She retired from Tesco in 2003 and now runs a retail advisory consultancy. She is also on the advisory board of Apax Partners Venture Capital & Private Equity and of Pricewaterhouse Coopers LLP, and is also chief retail and consumer advisor to Pricewaterhouse Coopers LLP.
In addition, Cros is currently a non?executive director of Woolworths, Next plc (UK multi-channel clothing and general merchandise retailer), Sonae Group plc (the largest grocery retailer in Portugal), and Plantasgen (a private equity owned garden centre group in Scandinavia).
As required by the company’s constitution, Cross will hold office at Kathmandu until the company’s next annual meeting, at which time she will be eligible for re-election.