HMV appoints new commercial director

HMV has recruited Michael Neil as its new commercial director. Neil was the recent commercial director at Waterstone’s, which HMV sold to Russian billionaire Alexander Mamut for 53m.

Neil replaced Gary Warren, who has decided to leave the retailer to pursue new interest. Warren has worked for the entertainment firm for 25 years.

Neil has held a number of senior roles within books retail, including MD at Bertrams, sales and marketing director at the Blackwell’s book chain, and head of brand strategy at WH Smiths.

"Michael brings with him a wealth of commercial insight and retail experience gained across a number of senior positions, and I am delighted to welcome him to HMV at this pivotal time as we continue our transformation into a broad-based entertainment brand," CEO Simon Fox says.

"I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Gary for his outstanding contribution to HMV across many parts of its business during his twenty-five years with the Group, and to wish him the very best for the future."

Neil will oversee a 55 strong Commercial department for HMV UK & Ireland and music and DVD specialist Fopp.