Marketing chief at MFI stands down during strategic review

MFI marketing chief Paul Jackson has quit the retailer after two years in the top role. He became marketing director (MW November 11, 2004) after beginning work with the retailer on a consultancy basis.

The move follows a strategic business review carried out by MFI chief executive Matthew Ingle, which ended just over a month ago. Losses at the company amounted to &£85m, before exceptionals, in the year to December 24. But insiders say that Jackson’s departure is not believed to be connected with the review.

It is understood Jackson has decided to leave the company part way through his contract for family reasons. His agreement was due to expire in October. He will continue to operate his consultancy business, Silverfin.

Tim James, a former marketing director at Homebase, who is currently commercial director at MFI, will oversee marketing on an interim basis. James works on a consultancy basis for the furniture chain. He also had a stint as chief executive at Littlewoods’ Index Stores division.

The retailer is now set to focus on kitchen and bedroom ranges, while 11 shops will close and others are to be downsized as part of a store-by-store review. MFI uses Publicis for advertising and ZenithOptimedia for media.