M&S makes senior hires for international business reset

Marks & Spencer has brought in Victoria Jones as commercial director, international. She was formerly at Clarks where she held a variety of senior roles, most recently chief product and merchandising officer.

Marks & Spencer said that she will be responsible for the product strategy of the international arm across clothing and food, “leveraging the best of the UK” business.

The retailer named Manish Kapoor as managing director of M&S India. He was previously chief executive of Pepe Jeans’ Indian business and “brings a wealth of experience building global retail brands with a deep understanding of Indian consumers”.

M&S has also promoted Richard Davies, formerly head of category for brands at M&S, to become international partnerships director. He will “unite the franchise and wholesale selling models under one umbrella”.

The three will report to M&S international managing director Mark Lemming, who was appointed last year as M&S opted to reset its overseas business after disappointing performance. Sales at constant currency fell 10.3% in the first half of the financial year when operating profit before adjusting items halved.

Lemming said: “The reset of our international business is focused on taking the right time and actions to build strong foundations for sustainable growth. Building an experienced global leadership team is an essential element of this plan and Manish, Victoria and Richard will play important roles, bringing fresh perspectives on our international reset and future growth strategy”

“As we continue to progress with our strategy, I remain confident in the medium and long-term opportunity for M&S to drive global growth.”