Former Marks and Spencer boss Sir Stuart Rose has made a return to the high street by joining growing fashion chain Blue Inc as chairman.

Rose invested in the 200-store fashion chain last year, joining fellow backers the billionaire Reuben brothers.

Blue Inc chief executive Steven Cohen said: “His appointment as chairman brings a wealth of retail experience and excellent knowledge of the clothing market to the board. We are thrilled that he is joining the company to lead the board, as this is his first chairmanship of a fashion retailer since M&S.”

The business is on track to grow profits 82% this year to £5.5m. Sales are expected to hit £80m.

Rose was previously chairman and chief executive of Marks and Spencer from 2004 until 2011. Since retiring from M&S 18 months ago, he has invested in online group The Hut and has taken an advisory role at private equity firm Bridgepoint.