The Very Group promotes Robbie Feather to CEO

The Very Group has named Robbie Feather as its new CEO succeeding Lionel Desclée, who has chosen to step down to pursue new opportunities.

Robbie Feather is the new CEO of The Very Group. Credit: The Very Group.

Feather, who joined The Very Group in 2021, previously led the company’s retail team, which includes all category sourcing, buying, and merchandising, as well as group trading and marketing. He has recently overseen the development of the company’s successful new brand platform and its market-beating retail performance, which saw Very UK H1 FY24 revenue grow 2.7% year on year to over £1bn ($1.27bn), increasing total online market share by 0.2%pts.

Prior to joining The Very Group, Feather held the role of CEO at department store chain Fenwick where he helped to turn around the company and modernise its customer proposition, including launching its online business. He previously held a number of roles at Sainsbury’s Argos, including commercial director on the Argos board, during which time he oversaw the digital transformation of the business and led the commercial team.

Feather said: “This is an outstanding business with a unique proposition, combining multicategory digital retail with flexible ways to pay. I look forward to working with our amazing Very team to delight our customers and continue to deliver sustainable growth for our shareholders.”

Aidan Barclay, The Very Group’s chairman added: “Robbie has proven to be an outstanding retail leader, both at The Very Group and throughout his career. He understands our business intimately and has a strong track record of transformation and growth. He is the perfect person to lead the next stage of The Very Group’s development. On behalf of the board, I want to thank Lionel for his strong, customer-focused leadership. We wish him the very best in his future endeavours.”