Ken Bartle is to retire from his role as chief executive of footwear retailer Jones Bootmaker at the end of the month.
The footwear veteran has more than five decades of experience in the footwear industry.
Chief operating officer Andrew White will be promoted to the role of managing director with immediate effect as a result of Bartle’s departure.
White comes from a store operations background and in recent years has taken responsibility for the company’s marketing and property portfolio, with a particular focus on its store expansion programme.
“Jones Bootmaker has flourished under the leadership of Ken Bartle and is in a strong and stable position to continue to succeed in what is set to be a challenging time for the UK high street,” said White.
“Cross-channel retailing is a particular focus for the business and we will develop in this area when we launch our new web platform later this year. The company will continue with its UK expansion programme by opening new stores and through possible acquisitions.”
Last year Jones Bootmaker was sold to Dutch retail conglomerate Macintosh Retail Group in a deal thought to be worth £40m.
Bartle held roles at Clarks and Stead & Simpson before leading the purchase of Jones Bootmaker from Prada with Lance Clark and Peter Phillips in 2001.
He was awarded Lifetime Achievement Award at the Drapers Footwear Awards in 2006.
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