A chartered accountant by trade, Andy previously served as Logistics Director at END, where he was part of the leadership team during the business's successful sale to Carlyle. His strategic insights and extensive leadership background will bring fresh energy to our diverse operations across the leisure, retail, and logistics sectors.
Speaking on his new role, Andy said: "WCF is a fascinating company with a broad variety of businesses and divisions. Having worked in different ownership structures, I’m excited to bring a new perspective to an employee-led model. The culture here is remarkable — it’s no surprise WCF has a ‘Great Place to Work’ accreditation. When you see employees with up to 48 years of service, it speaks volumes about the values and legacy of the business.
"I see my role as contributing to strategic projects and risk management to support sustainable growth for our stakeholders. Success, to me, is about protecting the company’s legacy for future generations, ensuring we don’t take risks that could undermine it. Unlike traditional corporate environments that prioritise numbers, WCF’s focus is on respecting its heritage and building a future that aligns with its unique employee-ownership ethos.”
In his role, Andrew will have executive responsibility for WCF’s Pet and Equestrian retail division as well as its home shopping business, spending significant time at the company’s headquarters at Brampton. To facilitate Andrew’s appointment, we announced two other key leadership changes:
Jo Ritzema, Executive Chair, commented: "At WCF, we value promoting talent from within, but sometimes the right external candidate brings a fresh mindset and skills. Andy’s broad experience across industries and leadership of large teams makes him a perfect fit for WCF’s culture and growth ambitions. Our first Executive Board meeting with Andy on board was fantastic, and I am confident he will help take WCF to new heights.”
WCF’s commitment to fostering a collaborative and employee-focused culture continues to set it apart. The leadership changes reflect WCF’s focus on sustainable, long-term development as an employee-owned business. The company is committed to empowering its nearly 400 employee-owners to shape the future of the business.
Jo added: "Andy’s insightful questions are already opening our eyes to new possibilities. It’s incredible how much you just do what you do, and only when someone asks ‘why?’ do you pause and reflect. We are all thrilled to have Andy on the team and look forward to the impact his experience and fresh perspective will bring.
“WCF is built on a legacy of resilience, innovation, and collaboration, and I am excited for the journey ahead."
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