The Works has appointed a former chief executive at Dunelm as its new independent non-executive director.

Nick Wharton has joined the value retailer’s board from today (August 1) and has replaced Harry Morely who will step down as senior independent non-executive director after the next annual general meeting (AGM).

Wharton has previous experience at several retailers. He was the chief executive at Dunelm, and was chief financial officer at Pepco Group, Halfords, and Superdry.

He also has extensive plc and governance knowledge as a board member, having formerly held non-executive director roles at companies such as Mothercare.

In an update on the London Stock Exchange, The Works chair Steve Bellamy said: “I am pleased to welcome Nick to the Board. Nick has very relevant sector and plc experience, and I am confident that the business will benefit from his expertise as we continue to capitalise on growth opportunities, deliver our strategic priorities and increase shareholder value.”

Wharton added: “This is an exciting time to join The Works – the business has made significant strategic and financial progress in the last year and there is a clear opportunity for further growth in the years ahead. I look forward to working alongside the rest of the board and supporting the management team to deliver its ‘Elevating The Works’ strategy.”