Poundland has appointed former Carpetright chief executive Darren Shapland as its new chairman.
Darren Shapland will be replacing Andrew Higginson who recently stepped down from the role after being appointed by WM Morrisons as its new chairman.

With over 25 years’ worth of experience in the retail sector, Shapland has worked in senior financial and operational roles with Arcadia and Kingfisher. He was previously chief financial officer at Sainsbury’s before becoming group development director.

Jim McCarthy, Poundland’s chief executive, said: “Darren has been on the board for over six months and has already made a very significant contribution to the business. As our senior independent director he is ideally placed to ensure a seamless transition into the chairman’s role.

“Andy has been an excellent chairman for Poundland and was invaluable in helping guide us through our successful IPO this year. He leaves with the appreciation and thanks of the whole company and we wish him well in his future endeavours.”

Shapland said: “I am delighted to be appointed chairman and am very excited about the next few years in the development of Poundland. With the successful IPO behind us, the UK business growing strongly, and our first store in Continental Europe just opened, it's a great time to be taking on this new role."