JD Group Executive and Leadership Team

June, 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 spectrum of consumer goods retail locations, including furniture, home goods, and other retail stores throughout South Africa, impacting the market with its extensive brand portfolio.

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 business units, including furniture, home goods, and electronics retail brands such as Russells, Bradlows, Rochester, Sleepmasters, Incredible Connection, and HiFi Corp, Matthew 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. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to fostering innovation within the retail and finance sectors, ensuring robust market presence, and guiding the company's expansion strategies. Matthew Van Der Walt's executive oversight guarantees the cohesive operation of all retail brands and consumer finance services, directly impacting the company's financial performance and market leadership.

    Ashley Kretzmann - Chief Financial Officer

    Ashley Kretzmann, the Chief Financial Officer at JD Group, manages all financial operations and strategic financial planning for the diversified retailer and consumer finance entity. Overseeing treasury, accounting, and financial reporting, Ashley Kretzmann ensures fiscal integrity and drives profitability across all retail brands, including Russells, Bradlows, Rochester, Sleepmasters, Incredible Connection, and HiFi Corp. This critical role involves developing financial strategies that support the company's growth objectives and its position as a subsidiary of Pepkor Holdings. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include capital allocation, risk management, and optimizing financial performance throughout South Africa. By providing insightful financial analysis, Ashley Kretzmann guides executive decisions, ensuring the company maintains a strong financial foundation and achieves its revenue and market share targets. The Chief Financial Officer's leadership is essential for sustaining JD Group's operational efficiency and long-term financial health.
    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 digital strategy for the diversified retailer and consumer finance company. Overseeing all technology development, IT operations, and digital transformation initiatives, Haiming Yang ensures that the company's technology stack supports its extensive retail operations, including brands like Russells, Bradlows, Rochester, Sleepmasters, Incredible Connection, and HiFi Corp. This leadership position involves defining the enterprise architecture that drives innovation and efficiency across South Africa. The Chief Architect & Group Chief Technology Officer's responsibilities include managing cybersecurity, data analytics, and the integration of new technologies to enhance customer experience and operational effectiveness. By leading the technology vision, Haiming Yang directly contributes to JD Group's competitive advantage and its ability to adapt to evolving market demands. The Chief Architect & Group Chief Technology Officer's strategic guidance is fundamental to the company's ongoing digital evolution and operational resilience.
    Haiming Yang

    Celeste Pretorius - Hrc

    Celeste Pretorius, the Hrc at JD Group, directs human resources strategy and operations for the diversified retailer and consumer finance company. Overseeing talent acquisition, employee relations, and organizational development, Celeste Pretorius ensures that JD Group's workforce supports the company's extensive retail operations across South Africa, encompassing brands such as Russells, Bradlows, Rochester, Sleepmasters, Incredible Connection, and HiFi Corp. This vital role involves cultivating a positive work environment and implementing HR policies that align with the company's objectives as a subsidiary of Pepkor Holdings. The Hrc's responsibilities include managing compensation and benefits, fostering employee engagement, and driving initiatives that enhance organizational effectiveness. By focusing on human capital development, Celeste Pretorius directly contributes to the company's operational success and its ability to attract and retain top talent. The Hrc's leadership is crucial for maintaining a skilled and motivated team across all JD Group entities.

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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.