Marks & Spencer has hired Boohoo’s former group managing director, Mitch Hughes, to revitalize its menswear division.
At Boohoo, Hughes led former Dorothy Perkins, Burton, and Wallis, which were all previously owned by the now-bankrupt Arcadia Group. Hughes is credited with integrating the brands into Boohoo’s portfolio and for resurfacing them as digital-only brands.
His appointment also marks his return to Marks & Spencer, where he worked between 1997 to 2005 as a buyer.
“I’m hugely excited to be re-joining the business after over 15 years,” Hughes said. “There’s so much opportunity in the menswear market and Marks & Spencer is now well set up to deliver growth across all markets and channels to their customers.”
The company noted that Hughes would “brilliant category experience” to the role, given his previous experience focusing on trading, eCommerce, marketing, and creativity.
Hughes is replacing Wes Taylor, Marks & Spencer’s current director of menswear and kidswear, who is stepping down from his role in December.
In addition to Hughes’ appointment, Marks & Spencer has promoted Alex Dimitriu, the current head of buying for menswear, to director of kidswear, FashionUnited reported.
Dimitriu reportedly brings more than 25 years of experience in buying for retailers such as House of Fraser, Miss Selfridge, and New Look.
