Bedroom retail specialist Forty Winks will have a new chief executive officer, Con Dekazos, from 6 October 2014

Dekazos will replace outgoing CEO James Hayward, who made the decision to step down from his position following seven years with the Australian retailer.

Dekazos has more than 25 years experience across manufacturing, wholesale and retail environments and was recently general manager at the Danks business, Home Timber & Hardware Group. During his time at the group he oversaw the integration of the group with Woolworths as part of its entry into the home improvement market.

"I’m extremely pleased and fortunate to have the opportunity to work with Australia’s leading bedroom specialist, Forty Winks. I look forward to being part of a strong brand, solid business and more importantly assisting members and franchisees to grow their businesses and take the company forward," said Dekazos.

Mike Podolinsky, chairman of the board of directors, said "We are confident that we have welcomed a strong and strategic business leader who understands that the strength of any franchise group starts with ensuring the store owners are performing well.

“I’d like to acknowledge our outgoing CEO, James who has been instrumental in moving the brand forward, overseeing our continued growth and most recently playing a part in launching the brand’s brave re-positioning with the aim to change lives through a better night's sleep, a move that led to a significant lift in turnover and market
share,” added Podolinsky.

Forty Winks is celebrating 30 years of business.