Mountain Warehouse founder steps down as CEO

Outdoor retailer Mountain Warehouse has appointed a new chief executive officer after its founder, Mark Neale, stepped down from the helm after 29 years.

According to The Times, Neale will instead take up the role of executive chairman, with Marcus Ward to step in as CEO from September 1.

Ward first joined Mountain Warehouse almost 20 years ago as finance director. He has since held several senior positions before becoming chief operating and financial officer in 2018.

In his new position, Ward will take over responsibility for the day-to-day operations of the business. Neale, meanwhile, will focus on driving international expansion and growing its broader portfolio, including US retailer Eastern Mountain Sports and surfwear label Animal.

Neale told The Times that Ward’s experience and understanding of Mountain Warehouse’s customers and operations made him the ideal candidate.

The shift in leadership comes as the company preps for international expansion, with plans to open 60 stores set out for the current financial year, including new locations in the UK, US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.