Experienced exec takes reins at Ribble Cycles

Ribble Cycles has installed a new chief executive who brings with him experience of affecting change in various notable brands.

Sean Hastings joins from B2C Group, where he expanded the business internationally, seeing it become one of Europe’s top-rated water sports retailers.

Prior to that he was chief customer officer at River Island and ran its online business, and before that chief marketing officer at Pentland Brands, owner of Speedo, Berghaus, Endura and Ellesse.

His appointment follows that of Becks DeNiro, another experienced executive who has been appointed as the company's chair.

Becks said: “The business has an exciting future ahead, and Sean’s extensive experience across product, brand and multi-channel retail will be invaluable as we embark on the next phase of our growth journey and lead innovation within cycling.”

Current CEO Andy Smallwood, who held the role for seven years, will transition to a senior adviser role. 

Will Pearson, managing director of Ribble’s majority shareholder True, said: “We want to thank Andy for everything he has achieved at Ribble over the past 7 years. The business is almost unrecognisable from when Andy first joined and is now one of the strongest brands in cycling with a fantastic customer proposition and some of the best, award winning bikes in the world.”