N Brown Group chief executive to step down

Manchester online retailer is searching for a new chief executive after announcing this morning its current CEO, Angela Spindler, is stepping down at the end of this month.

The board confirmed today that Ms Spindler, who it said has led the business through a period of significant change and its transition towards an online retailer, will leave her role at the end of September.

The board has asked Steve Johnson, who is currently chief executive of the financial services business, to assume the role of interim group chief executive officer until a new chief executive is in place.

He will join the plc board with immediate effect.

N Brown chairman, Matt Davies, said: “We recognise that now is an appropriate time to search for a new leader who can take the business forward through the next phase of its development.

“I would like to thank Angela for her significant contribution as CEO.

“Angela has led the business with passion, energy and a relentless focus on building on the group’s industry leading fit specialism as well as building N Brown’s online capability and expertise.

“She has had to contend with significant legacy issues and a challenging retail backdrop and has brought her great personal qualities and values to the way she has led our business.

“We wish Angela well for the future.”

Ms Spindler said: “I have been incredibly proud to lead N Brown over the past five years and to work with such exceptionally talented people that make N Brown the great company that it is.

“Over the last five years we have undertaken a significant transformation across the business to support our online future which will form a strong foundation for the coming years.

“I wish Steve Johnson well in his role as interim group CEO when I leave at the end of September and would like to thank him and all the N Brown executive for their wonderful support throughout my leadership.”

She added: “I wish the company and all my colleagues every success in the future.”

The company will be announcing its first half results on October 11.