J Crew hires new chief executive
US fashion retailer J Crew has named James Brett as its new chief executive.
Brett most recently served as president of furniture and homewares retailer West Elm where he was credited with helping the business to become a $1 billion global brand.
Prior to that, he was the chief merchandising officer for the Urban Outfitters division of Urban Outfitters and previously held various merchandising roles at retailers such as Anthropologie, JC Penney and May Department Stores.
Brett will take up his new position in July when he will also join the company’s board of directors.
Meanwhile, Millard Drexler will continue in his role as chairman and Michael Nicholson will remain as president, chief operating officer and chief financial officer of J Crew Group. In addition, Libby Wadle will remain as president of Madewell.
Drexler said: “This is an exciting time for J Crew as we continue to make significant changes to position our company for long-term success. As chairman and an owner of the company, it is my responsibility to focus on the future of J Crew and find the right leadership to execute on our strategic plans.
“Jim has a proven track record of pushing for innovation and growing omni-channel brands. I look forward to moving into my new role and assist Jim and the team in every way possible to help ensure a smooth and successful transition.”
