How Jigsaw is gearing up for growth with new funds and fresh leadership

You may have heard that Topshop and French Connection have been revamped to take the British high street by storm, but they’re not the only ones. Jigsaw, which recently announced a series of fresh leadership hires and received new investment, is undergoing a rejuvenation to reclaim its authority on the high street.

Backed by a £5 million investment and a wave of high-profile leadership appointments, the British womenswear label is entering a new era. The investment, led by Carphone Warehouse co-founder David Ross, marks a significant shift in the brand's trajectory, positioning Ross as the new majority shareholder and replacing founder John Robinson, who established Jigsaw in 1970.

Like many high street staples, Jigsaw endured financial strain during the pandemic. In October, the company reported a pre-tax loss of £3.6 million for the 12 months ending January 2024, compared to a profit of £816,000 the previous year. The company attributed the loss to marketing investments that failed to pay off. However, sales increased slightly from £56 million to £57 million.

The business is now undergoing a balance sheet reset and digital transformation. Part of the new capital will be directed toward modernising its online platform and strengthening its fulfilment capabilities, addressing the infrastructural needs of an omnichannel brand.

It comes as CEO Hash Ladha prepares to step down after 15 months at the helm. Ladha, who succeeded Beth Butterwick in late 2023, is set to exit in July. In the meantime, he will continue working with the board to ensure a smooth handover, as the company begins its search for a new CEO.

Taking on a new leadership role is Tikki Godley, who was appointed Managing Director late last month. Godley brings over two decades of experience in the fashion industry, including a tenure at Ted Baker and, most recently, a seven-month stint as COO at Never Fully Dressed. She is prepared to steer Jigsaw through its next phase of growth.

Godley is joined by Jordan Eaglestone, who will step into the role of Digital Director on 12 May. Eadlestone was previously Head of E-Commerce & Marketing at Hawes & Curtis.

Also coming on board is Richard Grainger, who joins as Sourcing & Business Development Director with immediate effect. He brings over 30 years of experience and most recently served as Joint Managing Director at River Island.

"This is a pivotal moment for Jigsaw," said a company spokesperson. "With fresh investment, a revitalised leadership team, and a clear strategic vision, we are poised to build on our heritage and drive the brand forward."

Adding creative energy to its business reboot, Jigsaw has also launched Curated By - a capsule series imagined by fashion journalist Lisa Armstrong. Her SS25 edit features 12 elevated staples: think crisp white shirts, fluid evening dresses and wide-leg chinos, all crafted with Jigsaw’s signature focus on quality and timeless design.

Armstrong, who has long admired the brand since her university days in Bristol, said she was drawn to Jigsaw’s enduring commitment to "good fabrics and understated design that doesn’t date".

The collaboration is already drawing attention for its blend of practicality and polish, which are both hallmarks of the modern Jigsaw woman.