Premium fashion retailer LK Bennett has appointed former John Lewis womenswear buying director Jo Hooper to the new role of group product director.

LK Bennett has 61 UK stores and aims to open more shops abroad

Hooper, who starts with immediate effect, will be responsible for the product vision and strategy across footwear, ready-to-wear, bags and accessories.  

She will also head up the company’s design, buying and merchandising teams worldwide.

Hooper was most recently womenswear buying director at John Lewis. Prior to spending six years at John Lewis, Hooper held head of design and buying roles at Debenhams.

Chief executive Robert Bensoussan said: “We are very excited to bring Jo into this important position to implement our product strategy, develop our ranges and drive further growth of the business as a global aspirational womenswear brand.”