Oddbins loses head buyer

The reversal in fortunes of Oddbins was dealt a blow last week as the retailer announced head buyer Richard Verney has quit his role to “pursue new challenges”.

However, in the hope of not losing momentum with implementing its new strategies, Oddbins confirmed that former buying director Emma Nichols will return to work for the retailer.

Former buying and marketing director Nichols returns on a purely consultancy basis and starts in January.

Nichols will be responsible for “working closely with senior management and buyers,” adding that her brief will be to improve the structure of the company’s buying process and to continue to develop mutually profitable relationships with suppliers.

Speaking of her new role, Nichols commented: “‘The work that has been done on the range in the last two and a half years has been exciting and I am delighted to have the opportunity to help the company continue that good work.”

Managing director of Oddbins, Simon Baile, said: “We are delighted to have Emma on board. Her vast industry experience and understanding of Oddbins are qualities which will further strengthen the company.”

Meanwhile Verney, who left Oddbins on 1 December, said: “‘I have enjoyed working for Oddbins through this period of change and found it both challenging and rewarding in equal measure, and it is with a sad heart that I move on to new challenges.”

Baile, commenting on Verney’s departure, said that he has “helped transform Oddbins’ range from what we inherited two and a half years ago to the diverse, interesting and exciting range we have today. On behalf of the company I wish Richard all the best with his future endeavours.”

Jane Parkinson, 20.12.2010