Former New Look and Matalan boss Nigel Oddy leaves American Golf

UK sports retailer American Golf chief executive officer Nigel Oddy has announced his departure from the company following a three-and-a-half-year tenure.

Oddy, who joined the UK parent group International Leisure Group Limited (ILG) as chief executive officer in April 2023, announced his decision through a statement on LinkedIn, noting that he resigned from the role in August.

During his leadership, the retailer refocused its strategic priorities on core retail operations, leading to three consecutive years of positive EBITDA. The operational turnaround culminated in the sale of the business earlier this year to investment firm Liongate Capital, supported by Peter Jones.

Key operational milestones delivered under Oddy’s tenure included the restructuring of retail operations and human resources under Elaine Wrigley, as well as expansion across owned and licensed brands led by Stuart Middlemiss. The company also undertook marketing transformations led by Scott Taylor and completed its first major IT infrastructure upgrade in over ten years under chief financial officer Simon Owers, introducing a new online platform.

Oddy brings over 45 years of retail industry experience to his next venture, having previously held senior executive leadership roles across major British retail institutions. Prior to joining ILG, he served as interim chief executive officer at UK value retailer Matalan from October 2022 to March 2023.

His background also includes three years at UK fashion retailer New Look, where he served as chief operating officer before being appointed chief executive officer from December 2019 to June 2022. Oddy previously held chief executive officer positions at UK retailer The Range and department store chain House of Fraser, following a 23-year tenure at UK retailer Marks & Spencer.

Oddy has not yet disclosed his next executive appointment, stating that further details regarding his future business engagements will follow in the coming months.