JD Group Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

JD Group has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, technology, and human resources.

Driven by a commitment to consumer finance and diversified retail, JD Group operates a broad portfolio of brands across South Africa, impacting numerous households with essential goods and services.

Leadership Roles at JD Group

  • Chief Executive Officer - Matthew Van Der Walt
  • Chief Financial Officer - Ashley Kretzmann
  • Chief Architect & Group Chief Technology Officer - Haiming Yang
  • Hrc - Celeste Pretorius
  • Matthew Van Der Walt - Chief Executive Officer

    Matthew Van Der Walt, the Chief Executive Officer at JD Group, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the diversified retailer and consumer finance company. Overseeing all major business units, including furniture, home goods, and electronics retail brands like Russells, Bradlows, Rochester, Sleepmasters, Incredible Connection, and HiFi Corp, Van Der Walt ensures alignment with the company's mission. This leadership role involves driving growth initiatives across South Africa and managing the company's position as a subsidiary of Pepkor Holdings. Matthew Van Der Walt's strategic decisions shape the company's market presence and financial performance, focusing on expanding consumer access to essential goods and financial services. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to fostering innovation within the retail and finance sectors, ensuring sustained profitability and market leadership.

    Ashley Kretzmann - Chief Financial Officer

    Ashley Kretzmann, the Chief Financial Officer at JD Group, manages all financial operations and fiscal strategy for the diversified retail and consumer finance entity. Kretzmann oversees budgeting, financial planning, risk management, and investor relations, ensuring the financial health and stability of the organization. This critical role involves optimizing capital allocation across JD Group's various retail brands, such as Russells, Bradlows, and Incredible Connection, and supporting their expansion throughout South Africa. Ashley Kretzmann's expertise is vital in navigating the complexities of consumer finance and retail markets, driving profitability and sustainable growth. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include ensuring compliance with financial regulations and reporting accurately on the company's performance to stakeholders, including its parent company, Pepkor Holdings.
    Ashley Kretzmann

    Haiming Yang - Chief Architect & Group Chief Technology Officer

    Haiming Yang, the Chief Architect & Group Chief Technology Officer at JD Group, architects the technological infrastructure and drives the digital transformation strategy for the diversified retailer and consumer finance company. Yang oversees the development and implementation of innovative technology solutions across all JD Group brands, including furniture, home goods, and electronics retailers like Rochester, Sleepmasters, and HiFi Corp. This leadership position involves ensuring robust IT systems, enhancing customer digital experiences, and leveraging technology to optimize operational efficiency throughout South Africa. Haiming Yang's vision guides the company's technological roadmap, supporting its growth and competitive positioning in the retail and consumer finance sectors. The Chief Architect & Group Chief Technology Officer's focus includes cybersecurity, data analytics, and the integration of advanced technologies to support business objectives and the company's subsidiary status under Pepkor Holdings.
    Haiming Yang

    Celeste Pretorius - Hrc

    Celeste Pretorius, the Hrc at JD Group, directs human resources and talent management strategies for the diversified retailer and consumer finance company. Pretorius oversees all aspects of employee relations, recruitment, compensation, and organizational development across JD Group's extensive portfolio of brands, including Russells, Bradlows, and Incredible Connection, operating throughout South Africa. This pivotal role ensures the company cultivates a skilled and motivated workforce, essential for delivering exceptional customer experiences in the furniture, home goods, and electronics retail sectors. Celeste Pretorius's leadership focuses on fostering a positive work environment, driving employee engagement, and aligning human capital initiatives with the company's strategic objectives and its operational framework as a subsidiary of Pepkor Holdings. The Hrc's contributions are fundamental to supporting the company's growth and operational excellence.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding JD Group Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads JD Group?
    JD Group is led by Matthew Van Der Walt (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Ashley Kretzmann (Chief Financial Officer) and Haiming Yang (Chief Architect & Group Chief Technology Officer).
    Who is part of JD Group’s executive team?
    The executive team of JD Group includes leaders such as Matthew Van Der Walt (Chief Executive Officer), Ashley Kretzmann (Chief Financial Officer), Haiming Yang (Chief Architect & Group Chief Technology Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does JD Group have?
    JD Group has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in JD Group’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of JD Group includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Architect & Group Chief Technology Officer, Hrc.