JD Sports Fashion plc, international retailer of sports, fashion and outdoor brands, has announced the appointment of Peter Agnefjäll as chair of the board, effective from next month.

Darren Shapland served as interim chair since last month’s AGM, following the resignation of Andy Higginson in April after four years as chair. Shapland will remain on the board as an independent director.

Agnefjäll served as chair of supermarkets group Ahold Delhaize from 2021 to 2025, having previously been vice chair and non-executive director. He is currently non-executive director of WPP and was a member of the board of directors at Orkla from 2018 to 2026. His previous non-executive roles also include footwear retailer Deichmann and Wizz Air.

Having built his executive career over almost two decades at IKEA Group, Agnefjäll rose to president and CEO between 2013 and 2017.

Agnefjäll’s appointment follows a search process led by Kath Smith, senior independent director.

Darren Shapland, interim chair, commented: “On behalf of the Board I am delighted to welcome Peter as Chair. He brings an exceptional combination of international retail leadership, Board experience and a proven track record of overseeing growth and transformation in complex global businesses.

“His experience and perspective will be invaluable to JD’s Board and executive team as the Group continues to execute against its strategic objectives and capitalise on the significant opportunities ahead.”