Pete Selby leaves W H Smith

Pete Selby has left W H Smith after nine months as head of books at the retailer.

Selby decided to leave to "pursue other opportunities" according to W H Smith. He joined the firm in April 2019 after a stint at the Roald Dahl Story Company as retail publishing director.

A former head of books and music at Sainsbury’s, Selby had full responsibility of the books category when he took up the newly created role last year. He revealed plans to focus on children's and focus on the pre-order market in an interview with The Bookseller as the chain unveiled plans to revamp the estate.

A W H Smith spokeswoman said: "Pete Selby has decided to leave the business to pursue other opportunities. We wish Pete well in his next career move."

Selby's departure is the latest in a series of changes at the chain. In December, Al Aldous, trading director for books, news and impulse, moved across to W H Smith's FunkyPigeon.com, with head of news, impulse and gaming Ben Carrington succeding him. Carrington will continue to lead the books team.

High street managing director Carl Cowling took on the role of chief executive officer in November, following Stephen Clarke's decision to step down after 15 years with the firm.