Joe Browns appoints La Redoute’s Dawn Bannerman as new CEO

Leeds-based fashion and homeware retailer Joe Browns has appointed Dawn Bannerman as its new CEO, with immediate effect, following the departure of previous CEO Peter Alecock.

Bannerman previously spent almost nine years at La Redoute (UK), with over five years of experience as its Chief Commercial Officer.

Earlier in her career, she also spent nine years at Asda, with the last three years as Advertising & Marketing Manager for George Clothing.

Her appointment at Joe Browns comes at a time when the brand is "looking to undertake a digital transformation" and accelerate its UK and international growth.

Chairman of Joe Browns, Michael Truluck, said: "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 e-commerce experience will help us take Joe Browns to the next level."

A key focus of her new role will be to elevate the brand’s presence, including the opening of more stores, and develop the e-commerce capability of Joe Browns - "driving growth in markets where there is real opportunity".

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 founder Simon Brown, 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."