Marks & Spencer Kidswear Director departs before 'new chapter' at White Stuff

Marks & Spencer Kidswear Director Alex Dimitriu has left after six years at the retailer, having initially joined as Head of Buying for Menswear in 2020.

Posting on her LinkedIn account, Dimitriu said she is currently on “gardening leave” before taking on a role at White Stuff, reportedly as Product Director.

M&S said that news of Dimitriu’s successor will be “shared in due course”. Charlotte Davies is now leading the kidswear team on an interim basis, in addition to her role as Lingerie Director.

Dimitriu said: "After 30+ years of working life, leading this kidswear Marks & Spencer team has been my career high.

"A team of 100+ they are hardworking, ambitious, creative, passionate, risk-taking and resilient. Most importantly, a team that does it for each other and for their customers. That’s how they deliver outstanding product they can be proud of.

"For me personally, it’s simple... you get back what you give, you win and lose together.

"Creating outstanding product is an emotional enterprise long before it becomes a commercial one. If you love what you do, your customers feel it and the numbers will follow.

"To the designers, buyers, merchandisers and technologists in the UK and our sourcing offices, keep fighting the good fight, work hard, care deeply, celebrate together and keep bringing the joy. Too many people to name but you all know who you are.

"Enjoying my gardening leave before new chapter starts at White Stuff.”

Prior to joining M&S in February 2020 to head up buying for menswear, Dimitriu spent two years as Buying & Design Director at Miss Selfridge. That followed four years at New Look, the last two of which were as Buying and Design Director.

She also held the role of Head of Buying for Childrenswear at M&S for two years and seven months from July 2013 to 2016, which came after over two years as Buying & Design Director Womenswear House Brands at House of Fraser.