Bury-based FTSE 100 retailer JD Sports Fashion plc announced that US retail expert Prama Bhatt will join its board as a non-executive director, with effect from September 23, 2024.

Bhatt will join the JD Sports Fashion nominations committee and the remuneration committee and she will also join the board of the group’s US subsidiary, Genesis Holdings Inc.   

“Prama brings over 20 years of experience in omnichannel retailing, leading digital & eCommerce teams at Kenneth Cole Productions and Toys R Us,” said JD Sports.

“Most recently, she served as Chief Digital Officer of Ulta Beauty Inc., where she was instrumental in driving the company’s digital transformation and expanding its omnichannel presence. 

“She also sits on the compensation committee and board of Hormel Foods Inc.”

JD Sports Fashion chair Andrew Higginson said: “I am delighted to welcome Prama to the JD Board.

“Following the acquisition of Hibbett Inc. earlier this year and recommendations made as part of the board’s recent external evaluation, the board undertook a thorough search process, led by the nominations committee and using an external search firm, to recruit a US based non-executive director to add that perspective and insight to board discussions.

“Prama brings a wealth of relevant experience to the board and, in particular, a deep understanding of the US retail landscape.”