Ex-Asda executive takes the helm at Bonmarché

WOMENSWEAR retailer Bonmarché has announced the appointment of Helen Connolly as chief executive officer, following the departure of Beth Butterwick later this year.

Ms Connolly is currently senior buying director for George at Asda, responsible for women’s clothing, non-clothing and essentials, and will take up her position later in the year.

Prior to her appointment she worked at Arcadia Group as head of buying at Dorothy Perkins.

She was formerly head of sourcing for womenswear and girlswear at Next, sourcing from China, Thailand, India and Sri Lanka.

Last December 2015, Bonmarché issued a profit warning after suffering a difficult pre-Christmas trading period, at the same time that Ms Butterwick announced she was stepping down after four years. 

She is moving to international fashion house Karen Millen from the Wakefield business.

John Coleman, chairman of Bonmarché Holdings plc said: “We are delighted to be appointing someone of Helen’s calibre and experience to Bonmarché.

“With a strong track record in delivering exceptional results, Helen is an ambitious, talented and passionate individual who will make an outstanding leader for the business.

“Helen’s expertise in buying, merchandising, sourcing, product, and business development is first-class, and she has demonstrated a dedicated focus on delivering a high quality consumer experience.

“We look forward to welcoming her to Bonmarché and working with her to deliver further progress for the brand and the Company.”