Automotive and cycling retailer Halfords is looking for a new general counsel and company secretary only 18 months after hiring current head of legal Justin Richards.

Richards made the decision to leave the company in September, The Lawyer understands. He joined the retailer from Kellogg’s in April last year.

A spokesperson for Halfords said Richards’ departure was a ”personal decision”. It is not yet known whether Richards has a new role lined up.

Richards worked at Kellogg’s as director of legal affairs for two years prior to joining Halfords. He was legal director at Reckitt Benckiser between 2008 and 2011.

As Halfords general counsel Richards lead a team of two lawyers and reported to the company’s chief financial officer. His role had a strong focus on commercial contracts, trademark and patent licensing and managing the company’s IP portfolio.