Hampshire-based FatFace unveils leadership changes after Next deal

Hampshire-based fashion firm FatFace has unveiled a host of leadership changes following its £115.2 million takeover by Next in October last year.

The company is reportedly transitioning to Next's Total Platform, due to be complete later this year, when chief operating officer (COO) Mark Wright will step down from his role to pursue opportunities FatFace.

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His responsibilities will be split across existing and new FatFace board members.

Meanwhile, Amy Lynch, who has served as interim finance director since September last year, will take on the role permanently.

Head of people Jo Wilson and head of UK and Republic of Ireland stores Karen Johnston have been promoted to newly-created roles of people director and stores director respectively.

FatFace CEO Will Crumbie said in a Linkedin post: " I am delighted to announce the appointment of 3 new Directors, all internal promotions, in the FatFace business."

In addition, FatFace marketing and brand communications director Keely Stocker will expand her responsibilities to include digital and customer services as she moves to marketing and ecommerce director.

Crumbie reportedly said that bolstering the firm's leadership team and creating the new roles would ensure FatFace was "set up in the best way for future sustained growth".

He also thanked Wright for overseeing the group's transition to the Next business before stepping down.

As part of the acquisition terms, Next holds 97% of Havant-based FatFace's equity while FatFace management holds 3%.