Retail and financial services company, Thorn Group, has appointed Stephen Kulmar as a non-executive director.

Kulmar has extensive business experience, with more than 40 years in advertising, communications marketing, and strategic development.

Kulmar is currently MD of Retail Oasis, a retail marketing consultancy which focuses on connecting retailers with consumers.

Prior to that, Kulmar established retail marketing services business, IdeaWorks, which he expanded over 28 years to 145 people with offices in Australia and New Zealand,with it ultimately being sold to WPP plc.

David Carter, chairman of Thorn, said the board was very pleased to have someone of Kulmar’s experience and background join the board.

“It has been an extensive search to identify a person with the required skills and experience. Steve brings a very strong marketing and strategic perspective to our board and we are confident that his contribution will have a positive influence on Thorn continuing its development,” Carter said.

Kulmar will also be appointed as chair of the company’s Remuneration and Nomination Committee. He is currently a non executive director of ASX listed RCG Corporation Limited, an Australian based investment holding company which owns and operates the Athletes Foot, and RCG Brands Pty Ltd a wholesale and distribution company. He is also an advisor to a number of private and family company boards.