Martin Dawson

Martin Dawson

Former Asda executive Martin Dawson has joined Poundland as its new retail director.

He replaces Tim McDonnell who is to become the retailer’s new international director.

Dawson, who was also retail director at Asda, was responsible for both the Asda and converted Netto estate before he left the business in January this year as part of a shake-up of the top executive team.

Previous roles at Asda included operations director for the South and managing director of superstores and supercentres. He has also worked for Tesco, New Look and Barratt Shoes in various roles.

“Martin brings a wealth of retail and FMCG industry experience to the team. We look forward to having him on board,” said Poundland chief executive Jim McCarthy.

He becomes the latest high profile appointment at Poundland. In July it hired Sainsbury’s former convenience stores boss Simon Twigger as trading director.