Former retail leader joins The CFO Centre

Barry Leach has joined The CFO Centre as a fractional chief financial officer, strengthening its North West network of senior finance leaders supporting businesses through growth, change and transformation.

Based in Bury, Barry brings over 30 years of senior leadership experience in the retail sector, spanning retail, wholesale and direct-to-consumer channels. 

He joins following a distinguished career with JD Outdoor Group, JD Sports, American Golf, Rangers International Football Club, Sports Direct, Adidas Group and Reebok. 

Most recently, he was commercial director at JD Outdoor Group, leading buying, merchandising and finance teams through a period of significant change.

Barry is known for driving growth, leading complex operational change and delivering sustainable improvements in profitability, cash generation and customer focus.

He said: “The fractional chief financial officer model gives SMEs access to the depth of experience and strategic insight they need without the cost of a full-time hire. 

“I understand the challenges that business owners and leadership teams face, as I’ve lived and breathed them for three decades. 

“I can now take that experience and help them to unlock opportunities, navigate change and create lasting value.”

“For me personally this is an exciting opportunity to transition from the corporate world to a portfolio career. 

“I’m looking forward to more variety, the opportunity to work across different sectors and to giving something back in helping smaller businesses here in Lancashire and the wider North West.”

The CFO Centre works with over 750 businesses across the UK, providing seasoned chief financial officers on a part-time basis to deliver strategic, financial and operational leadership. 

Sara Daw, chief executive of The CFO Centre, added: “Barry has worked with some impressive brands, and has the breadth of experience, commercial acumen and proven ability to deliver results in complex, fast-paced environments. 

“He will be a fantastic addition to our team and will play a key role in helping our clients achieve their ambitions.”

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