Yahoo Finance High Street chain New Look appoints Connolly CEO
High street fashion retailer New Look has appointed its chief commercial officer (CCO) as boss replacing former CEO Nigel Oddy who departed the chain earlier this month.
Before joining New Look in 2020, Connolly had been the boss at clothing chain Bonmarché for four years. Prior to this, she was a director of buying for womenswear and lingerie for the George clothing brand at supermarket Asda and head of buying at Dorothy Perkins.
During her time as CCO, Connolly has focused on New Look’s buying and merchandising capabilities, pulling the retailer back into the black following the coronavirus pandemic.
Mike Coupe, chairman of New Look, said: “Helen’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for New Look, as having navigated the pandemic successfully the business now has a strong platform for future growth.
“Over the last two years, Helen has been critical in shaping and improving the business and has transformed the New Look product offer. Along with her knowledge of the business, she brings with her a wealth of sector experience.”
Connolly added: “It’s a privilege to be taking on the role of CEO at this iconic British brand. New Look is a leading womenswear fashion retailer, and for good reason.
“People shop with us because we make them look good and feel great and I am excited about the many opportunities we have ahead of us.”
New Look has an estimated 400 stores across the UK. Last year the retailer said shopping sprees had offset lower footfall to return it to profit.
