Chadwicks Group has announced the appointment of Caitríona McGovern as Head of Category Management, Lightside.

In her new role, McGovern will lead a team responsible for the full in-branch product offering across 52 Chadwicks Group locations in RoI and 29 MacNaughton Blair locations in NI. Her remit spans over 55,000 products across 300 product lines, including general hardware, tools, workwear, paint, garden, electrical and appliances, and site equipment. She will set the strategic direction for the category, overseeing buying, supplier partnerships and category development.

Working closely with colleagues across the group and its suppliers, McGovern will focus on strengthening the lightside product range, enhancing availability, and delivering a consistent, high-quality customer experience across the branch network. Her role will also support the continued growth of the category in line with evolving customer needs and wider market trends.

McGovern joins with over 25 years’ experience in retail and commercial leadership, having held senior buying and trading roles with leading retailers, including Brown Thomas Arnotts and Dunnes Stores. She brings a strong track record in delivering category growth and leading high-performing teams within fast-paced, customer-focused environments.

Speaking on the appointment, Gary Murray, Category Director at Chadwicks Group, said: “We are delighted to welcome Caitríona to the team. She joins us with an impressive track record in buying and category development across some of Ireland’s leading retailers, bringing deep commercial expertise and a strong understanding of customer needs.

"Her appointment reflects our continued focus on enhancing the in-branch customer experience, and her customer-first mindset, combined with her proven ability to deliver results, will play a key role in strengthening our offer across all branches.”

McGovern added: “I’m delighted to join Chadwicks Group at such an exciting time for the business. Lightside is a dynamic and wide-ranging category with a strong opportunity to further enhance the customer offer.

"I look forward to working with the team and our supplier partners to build on the strong foundations in place, evolve the range, and ensure we continue to deliver quality, value and convenience for customers across the network.”