Franchise bedding retailer, Forty Winks, has appointed former GM of Home Timber & Hardware Group (Danks), Con Dekazos, as its new CEO.

Effective from next month, Dekazos will replace outgoing CEO, James Hayward, who is stepping down from the position after seven years with the bedding chain.

Dekazos has more than 25 years experience in the industry across manufacturing, wholesale, and retail.

Most recently Dekazos held the position of GM of  Home Timber & Hardware Group (Danks).

Dekazos joined the hardware group in 2000 and 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.

The announcement follows a significant milestone for Forty Winks, as the franchise business celebrates 30 years of bringing Australians a better night’s rest.

“As we celebrate the success of the past 30 years, we now set our sights on an even brighter future with Con at the helm.” Mike Podolinsky, chairman of the board of directors at Forty Winks, said.

“We were overwhelmed by the outstanding level of candidates who were keen to head our organisation and 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,” said Mike Podolinsky, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Forty Winks.”