Shop Direct names head of RBS's Lombard Alex Baldock as its new chief
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Shop Direct, the online retailer owned by Sir David (pictured, left) and Sir Frederick Barclay, has hired the managing director of a Royal Bank of Scotland division as its new chief executive.
Alex Baldock, the head of RBS's Lombard, the asset finance lender to businesses, will join the owner of the Littlewoods catalogue in September. He replaces Mark Newton-Jones, who will leave the business before July 2013. Hiring Mr Baldock reflects the complex business model of Shop Direct, whose online and catalogue retail business relies heavily on offering credit to consumers.
Mr Baldock said: "I am not here as a retailer. I am here as a leader with a record of profitable growth at scaled businesses."
He joined Lombard from the bank Barclays in 2008. Mr Baldock also advised retail clients, including Marks & Spencer and House of Fraser, as a consultant at Bain & Company, Ernst & Young, and Dentsu. Shop Direct posted underlying profits of £92m last year.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments