DFS has appointed Marie Wall as interim chief financial officer (CFO), who will join the business from 2 December.

She is replacing John Fallon, who has stepped down from the board as of today, and will leave the business on 17 January 2025.

Wall has held a number of senior finance roles at firms including Imperial Brands, Wolseley and Dixons Carphone.

Chief executive officer at DFS, Tim Stacey, said: "I am very pleased to welcome Wall to our group. She is a strong addition to our leadership team bringing with her a wealth of financial leadership experience, as we pursue our growth strategy."

The announcement comes as the furniture retailer said it continues an "improvement in trading" in the first quarter of its current financial year, with a year-on-year growth in its order intake.

Remaining in line with expectations, the firm has also made progress in reducing its cost base through the current financial year, having made a start on this process in the 2024 financial year.

Investment director at DFS, Russ Mould, stated: "DFS raised hopes it will return to profit in its current financial year as it built on a strong finish to its previous financial period. The company is also continuing to strip out costs and has appointed Wall as interim CFO.

"DFS will hope the reduction in interest rates and tentative recovery in the property market continue as these will be key ingredients for future demand."

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