Emma Rackley has been appointed director of furniture and home at Associated Independent Stores (AIS). She is taking over from Julian Cox, who leaves at the end of the year.
Emma boasts a wealth of industry experience, having held a range of roles from junior buyer to category manager with the likes of Leekes, Furniture Village and Shop Direct, plus her most recent role as group commercial director at Bensons.
Emma will spend the next three months working alongside Julian, to better understand the business.
Also at AIS, Rebecca Maloy and Rachel Brown have taken up new roles following the departure of Gary Thompson.
After two-and-a-half years looking after AIS’ cabinet division, Rebecca will now also take control of the buying group’s beds division, while Rachel will manage upholstery while retaining responsibility for sofabeds and garden furniture.