Dobbies bolsters leadership team

Dobbies has bolstered its leadership team through the addition of three senior appointments, as the group continues to eye further growth across the UK. 

Richard Hodges has been appointed as Dobbies’ commercial director, joining from Sainsbury’s where he was head of UK Wholesale and International Growth. 

In his new role, he will take responsibility for all trading, as well as leading the rollout of the company’s small store format, Little Dobbies, and the growth of its online platform.

Meanwhile, John Dunning has been appointed as Dobbies’ restaurant director, having most recently worked at Bourne Leisure, where he was Food and Beverage director for Butlins. 

In addition,Tim Hollis joins as Dobbies’ head of Buying, having previously been head of Buying for the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). Hollis will lead the buying team and be responsible for buying across all categories. 

Graeme Jenkins, Dobbies’ CEO, said: “Richard, John and Tim bring outstanding experience from the retail, hospitality and horticulture worlds. They will be instrumental in helping continue with our growth plan.” 

Hodges added: “Dobbies is the UK’s leading garden centre business – I’m looking forward to playing a major role in the next stage of the company’s growth.” John Dunning, Restaurant Director, said: “Dobbies has always been a great place for food – I am looking forward to helping improve the restaurant offer for our customers.” 

Hollis said: “Dobbies is continually striving to offer customers the best product ranges and I’m motivated by the opportunity to drive the business forward. I’ll ensure we continue to build on Dobbies’ sustainability commitments, taking our green credentials to the next level.” 

Andrew Bracey, Dobbies’ chairman, concluded: “As we grow Dobbies organically and by acquisition we are always trying to improve what we offer our customers. By strengthening the team, we will be more able to do this and continue to improve on our outstanding customer experience.”