Dobbies appoints new strategy and business development director

Dobbies, the UK’s leading garden centre retailer, has strengthened its senior leadership team with the appointment of Rajesh Gupta as strategy and business development director.

Gupta qualified as a chartered accountant with KPMG and has 20 years of experience in retail working in strategy, business development and customer roles with Argos, Sainsbury’s, Pets at Home and Central Co-op, latterly as chief customer officer.

He is already familiar with the business having provided strategic consultancy support to Dobbies’ leadership team for the past eight months.

Regarding his appointment, Gupta said: “Dobbies is at such a transformative time in its 159-year history and it’s exciting to join the team to build on what is already a household brand name. As someone who has a joy and appreciation for gardens, in all forms, I’m looking forward to working with colleagues across the business to further enhance our position as a trusted destination for garden living.”

David Robinson, CEO of Dobbies, said: “Rajesh has an extensive and diverse background in senior leadership roles and is passionate about innovation.

“He has already been working with colleagues across the business to develop our strategy, bringing to life our focus on championing garden living. Rajesh has made a positive contribution to the future direction of the business, and it is a pleasure to welcome him to our senior leadership team on a permanent basis. This is another excellent step in further strengthening our team.”