New Look confirms return of design director; seeks new president

Now that the chain’s founder, Tom Singh, has taken back control of his business, the return of executive directors continues. After Roger Wightman went back to his former position of buying director, it was Barbara Horspool who was convinced to stay by Tom Singh, on the condition that she was given more responsibilities.

Tom Singh

In charge of New Look’s womenswear since 2007 and former designer at Marks & Spencer, Barbara Horspool had even announced in February her departure as the retailer’s design director in order to join fashion chain Oasis. After her reappointment was confirmed at the beginning of the week, she should now be responsible for design across all categories and also play a bigger role in the marketing side.

But the post of president remains to be filled. Tom Singh, who returned to New Look following Carl McPhail’s early departure, is supposedly in discussions with Alistair McGeorge, ex-Matalan CEO.