Peter Agnefjäll says ‘JD has built a powerful global position in sports and sport-inspired fashion’
A former CEO of Ikea has been appointed as the new chair of the board at JD Sports.
Peter Agnefjäll will join the Greater Manchester-based sportswear giant from September 1 and will succeed Darren Shapland, interim chair at JD Sports since July 21.
Mr Agnefjäll spent almost two decades at Ikea Group and was President and CEO between 2013 and 2017, where he oversaw a period of growth and digital development. He has since been chair of Ahold Delhaize from 2021 to 2025, is a non-executive director of WPP, and has previously had non-executive roles at Deichmann and Wizz Air.
His appointment follows a search process lead by senior independent director Kath Smith and the JD Sports board, backed by an external executive search firm.
Darren Shapland, who will stay on the JD Sports board as an independent director, said: “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.”
Peter Agnefjäll, chair elect, said: “JD has built a powerful global position in sports and sport-inspired fashion, with a unique connection to its core customer, strong brand partnerships, carefully curated and vibrant stores, and a clear, defined omni-channel strategy.
“I am excited to be joining the group and look forward to working with the board and leadership team to leverage JD’s strengths, deepening its roots in international markets and affirming its position in a rapidly evolving retail landscape.”





You must be logged in to post a comment Login