DFS appoints new non-executive director

DFS Furniture has announced the appointment of Loraine Martins as an independent non-executive director of the company, effective immediately.

Martins will be a member of the audit committee, nomination committee, and remuneration committees.

Since 2012, she has been the director of diversity and inclusion at Network Rail, which is responsible for the UK’s rail infrastructure.

In 2021 she was awarded the OBE for her work on diversity and inclusion at Network Rail. Prior to that, Martins was responsible for jobs, skills and equality and inclusion in the construction of the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park for the London 2012 Olympic Games, for which she was awarded an MBE.

She brings experience of organisational transformation, culture change and a strong commitment to responsible businesses to her new role.

Martins said: “At a time when businesses are increasing their focus on being more responsible – be it the environment, sustainability and diversity and inclusion.

“I’m honoured to be joining the DFS board, with the group poised to continue its market leadership and enhance its social responsibility.”

Ian Durant, chairman of DFS, added: “I am delighted to welcome Loraine to the DFS Board. She brings with her significant skills and experience working within large organisations including Network Rail to develop their diversity and inclusivity strategies.

“These skills as well as her health and safety experience will be of great benefit to DFS as a non-executive director. We are very much looking forward to working with her and are sure that she will make a valuable contribution.”