Fashion home shopping specialist Boden has poached the man who orchestrated American Eagle’s UK launch to be its new product director.

Fashion home shopping specialist Boden has poached the man who orchestrated American Eagle’s UK launch to be its new product director.

Matthew Hilgeman, who served as vice-president/general merchandise manager at American Eagle Outfitters for two years and masterminded its move into Britain in 2014, joined the retailer last week. He will also take up a seat on the main board.

Hilgeman has also spent stints working at Reitmans, Levi Strauss and Abercrombie & Fitch. He will be responsible for all Boden product areas - womenswear, menswear and Mini Boden childrenswear - and the supply chain, the retailer said.

Boden managing director Julian Granville added: “Matt brings invaluable international brand experience to Boden. He will strengthen our team as we continue to expand our overseas operations, particularly in the important and growing US market.”