Nordvall, who brings extensive experience from his 17-year tenure at H&M, most recently served as managing director for the UK and Ireland, managing a revenue portfolio of $1.5bn.
Matalan executive chair Karl-Heinz Holland said: “I am absolutely delighted that Henrik is joining Matalan at this exciting stage of our transformation. In Henrik, we have an individual with significant UK, apparel retail experience, coupled with proven CEO leadership experience to continue Matalan’s strategic delivery.
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“I have no doubt that he will add huge value across all areas of the business, complementing the experienced executive and leadership team. I would like to take this time to thank the executive team for their valuable contribution and commitment over the last 12 months whilst we have been concluding our search.”
This leadership change occurs after the company introduced several new senior leaders earlier this month to enhance its capabilities in buying and design, trading and merchandising, marketing, and digital operations.
Jo Bennett was appointed as director of buying and design, and Jon Williams has the role of trading, planning and merchandising, while Eilidh MacAskill has joined as director of marketing.
These hires were part of broader changes implemented earlier this year by Karl-Heinz Holland and the leadership team.
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By GlobalDataKarl-Heinz Holland, who has been serving as executive chair since October 2024, will return to his role as chair of the board in February 2026.
Matalan has reported a 69% increase in pre-IFRS16 earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) to £34m ($45.29m) for the six months ending 30 August 2025.
This growth was attributed to margin expansion and stringent cost management, as the company progresses with its strategic initiatives, including a store refresh programme where upgraded locations have outperformed others by 14%.
The company operates a network of 265 UK and international stores as well as an integrated e-commerce platform.
Henrik Nordvall stated: “I am thrilled to join Matalan as the new CEO from February 2026. Matalan is on a very exciting journey on delivering everyday style, quality and value to their customers and I am excited to start contributing to the business. Together with the executive team, the board and the whole Matalan team, I look forward to taking the company into the future.”
