Sports Direct International plc, the United Kingdom's leading sport goods retailer, has appointed Matt Pearson as Acting Chief Financial Officer. Pearson will join the board of Sports Direct International plc on June 4.

Pearson joined Sports Direct International as a Group Financial Accountant from EY, formerly known as Ernst & Young, in June 2007, and was subsequently appointed Group Financial Controller.

“After a thorough process and following soundings from leading institutions I am delighted that Matt has been appointed Acting Chief Financial Officer and is to join the Board,” said Keith Hellawell, Chairman of Sports Direct International plc.  “Matt is already leading our Group Finance Team and is now perfectly placed to take on the additional responsibilities of this role on an interim basis.”

Sports Direct is the UK’s leading sports retailer by revenue and operating profit, with approximately 400 stores across the UK. It also operates in 19 countries in Europe, including Belgium, Austria, Slovenia and France and owns 28sport, fashion and lifestyle brands including Dunlop, Slazenger, Everlast, Lonsdale and Karrimor.