AN employee‑owned Cumbrian business has strengthened its senior leadership team with the creation of a new role to shape and deliver its digital strategy.
Stephen Wilkinson has been appointed Head of Technology at Brampton-based WCF, which operates across the UK in the leisure, retail and logistics sectors.
Stephen brings more than 20 years’ experience in technology leadership, having built his career in customer focused IT roles. His previous positions include senior roles at END clothing, Cineworld Cinemas, Fitness First, Jack Wills and Charlotte Tilbury.
In his new role, Stephen will be responsible for shaping and delivering WCF’s technology strategy, working closely with teams across the business to ensure technology supports people, improves ways of working and enables sustainable growth.
He said: “WCF stood out to me because of its people, its values and the way decisions are made. As an employee-owned business, there’s a genuine focus on doing the right thing for the long term, with the team encouraged to make a positive impact at every level. That creates an environment where technology can really add value.”
Stephen’s remit includes identifying opportunities to create greater consistency and economies of scale across WCF’s businesses. He is leading work on data protection, cyber security awareness and governance, as well as the adoption of technology platforms and AI-enabled tools where they can deliver clear benefits.
Stephen said one of his priorities was connecting technology and people.
“Because WCF operates across a wide range of sectors, the tools required by colleagues will differ and must be right for their individual roles.
“My aim is to help people feel confident using technology, removing any fear around it and ensuring that it genuinely makes their jobs easier. Technology should never be about change for change’s sake – it should support the business and the people within it.”
Stephen is based at WCF’s head office in Brampton and works on projects across WCF’s multiple sites, reflecting its diverse businesses including retail, camping and glamping, oil distribution, and mail order shopping brands.
Andy Mochrie, Chief Operating Officer at WCF, said: “Stephen brings a rare combination of strong technical expertise and a genuine understanding of people and culture. His approach aligns strongly with WCF’s values and we’re delighted to welcome him to the team.”
WCF’s Cumbrian-based businesses include five of the firm’s eight WCF Pet & Equestrian stores, mail order shopping brands based in Brampton, and Allan Stobart Lubricants & Fuels, which supplies domestic heating oil and commercial fuels across Cumbria.
