New Look appoints Lynda Petherick as CEO as the British fashion chain moves into a new growth phase following a strong financial year.
Leadership shift after a year of record earnings
New Look confirmed that Lynda Petherick will take over as chief executive, succeeding Helen Connolly. Petherick joined the retailer in 2024 as chief information officer, overseeing digital transformation initiatives. A year later she was promoted to chief operating officer, a role that put her in charge of daily operations and supply‑chain coordination.
Connolly will stay on until 21 September to facilitate a handover before moving to Asda as chief executive of its George brand. The transition period is intended to keep strategic projects on track and preserve continuity for staff and investors.
Mike Coupe, chair of New Look, said the board is “delighted to appoint Lynda as chief executive.” He highlighted her “strong commercial judgement and operational discipline” alongside a “deep understanding of our customers, our brand and the role that data and technology will play in our future.”
Financial backdrop that set the stage
The appointment arrives after New Look reported its strongest performance in a decade. For the fiscal year ending 28 March, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) doubled to £36.6 million. The retailer credited the rise to tighter markdowns, improved margin and a lower cost base.
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First‑quarter results showed EBITDA at £17.4 million, a £1.8 million increase over the same period a year earlier. The data suggest that recent cost‑control measures and a focus on stock discipline are beginning to pay off.
Coupe noted that the company is “in a stronger position than it has been for many years,” pointing to the “positive customer response to our product” and continued growth of the loyalty program, Club New Look.
The shift in leadership may test how well the organization can translate these financial gains into sustained market share. While the board praises the existing momentum, the retail sector remains volatile, with consumer confidence subject to broader economic pressures.
Maintaining the current trajectory will likely depend on how effectively the new CEO can balance cost efficiency with the need for fresh product offerings.
What the new chief executive brings to the table
Petherick’s background in technology and operations aligns with New Look’s recent emphasis on data‑driven decision making. As COO, she reportedly “made a significant impact” and “has a clear vision for its next phase,” according to the chair.
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Her experience suggests a focus on integrating digital tools across the supply chain, potentially enhancing inventory turnover and reducing excess stock. This could help the retailer keep margins healthy while still offering competitive pricing.
Stakeholders will be watching to see if she can extend the gains seen in the last fiscal year. The board’s confidence rests on her familiarity with the business and her track record of executing strategy.
Looking ahead, the company’s leadership team appears poised to leverage the current platform.
With a “strong platform in place” and “clear momentum in our customer proposition,” the next steps will likely involve expanding the club membership base and refining the online shopping experience.
