Strategic Programme Manager
HAMLEYS

With more than 25 years in retail, David Meekings has created, developed, and managed store design and store opening projects for an array of retailers, gaining insight into their individual approaches. This broad experience showed him the importance of design differentiation that retains strong commercial principles.

Since he joined Hamleys in 2001, Meekings has been involved in the development of the Regent Street flagship store and taken the brand international with its first locations in Denmark. He has project managed the openings of various travel stores and Hamelys' first international stores in Jordan and Dubai, which opened in 2008.

He worked with Chute Gerdeman on the brand's current retail concept and is working on projects in India, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe.

Prior to joining Hamleys, Meekings owned Fusion & Video 2 U. His background also includes stints with Woolworths, River Island, and Arcadia (then known as The Burton Group).

He has served as executive and management board director for New West End Co. and was Runner Up Store Manager of the Year in the Retail Week Awards 2004. A Qualified Basketball Coach, he is experienced at the junior, county, and SE England levels.