Joe Browns, the fashion and homes retailer, announced today (16 February 2024) that Dawn Bannerman has joined as chief executive officer with immediate effect.
Bannerman joins from laredoute.co.uk, where she held the position of chief commercial officer and prior to that, chief marketing officer for the UK subsidiary of the French business La Redoute.
Bannerman’s appointment comes at a time when the brand is looking to undertake a digital transformation and move into its new phase of UK and overseas growth.
A key focus of the role will be to elevate the brand presence including the opening of more stores, develop the e-commerce capability and drive growth within opportunity markets.
On joining, Bannerman said: “Joe Browns is a brand I have known and admired, both personally and professionally for many years. I have always loved the story behind the brand and the unique positioning, which has remained true to the core brand essence over time.
“From my first meeting with Simon it was clear to see how much love there is for the brand, both internally within the team and externally with customers and partners alike.
“This pride in the brand, combined with a real passion for the product and making the customer feel ‘remarkable’ is what makes Joe Browns really stand out from the crowd.
“I am delighted to have the opportunity to build on some strong foundations and excited to lead this fantastic business into its next phase of growth.”
Michael Truluck, chairman, added: “It’s a great pleasure for Simon, the board and I to welcome Dawn to Joe Browns! We’re excited for our future with Dawn at the helm. Having worked with Dawn before, I know her tenacity, curiosity and drive, plus of course her wealth of retail, catalogue and ecommerce experience will help us take Joe Browns to the next level. We’d also like to thank Pete for his contribution over the last 18 months and wish him well in his next venture.”
Joe Browns was founded 25 years ago with the intention of “making a few quid and having some fun”, as well as helping customers to feel remarkable in the clothes they wear.
Headquartered in Leeds, it employs 185 people and serves 1.4m customers. Its third-party retailers include Next, Very Group, N Brown Group PLC and Freemans Grattan Holdings.
In the last few years, it has extended its offer further to include homewares and loungewear, completed an evolutionary re-brand and built a £3.5 million warehouse extension.
Joe Browns board comprises of Simon Brown – Founder, Darren Abbott – finance director, Alison Rycroft – merchandise director, Tracey Hepton – marketing director, Jane Reik – buying and design director, Dawn Bannerman – CEO and Michael Truluck – chairman.
Bannerman replaces Peter Alecock, who previously held the role of chief executive officer and has left the business.
