Majestic man joins Austin Reed
Tim How becomes deputy chairman
Bid target Austin Reed has bolstered its board with the appointment of Tim How as deputy chairman.
How, chief executive of Majestic Wine, replaces John Sanders, who is retiring.
The appointment comes as Dawnay Day has further increased its stake in the clothing retailer. Investment company Dawnay, which is the biggest shareholder in the business, now has an interest in 24.8 per cent of the buisness.
Dawnay Day has been repeatedly linked to a takeover bid for Austin Reed, and in July was said to be talking to private menswear group Greenwood about a joint approach.
Austin Reed continues to work to improve performance at its Country Casuals womenswear business, and has also appointed Joanne Jong as creative director for the brand. Jong previously worked in Italy for Giorgio Armani and Missoni.
The company has promoted Chris Holmes, formerly Austin Reed brand director, to managing director. Also joining Austin Reed are Neil Parker, formerly with Pilot Clothing, as retail operations director, and Melly Gildersleeve, formerly at Moss Bros as head of marketing.
