Mothercare names CEO

Mother and baby retailer Mothercare has announced that interim chief executive officer, Mark Newton-Jones will take

up the position permanently, effective July 17.

Newton-Jones' appointment follows his “successful tenure” as the group's interim CEO, a position he has held since March, following the resignation of Simon Calver.

Prior to joining Mothercare, Newton-Jones was group chief executive of Shop Direct for over nine years, where he is credited with leading its turnaround and transformation into one of the UK's leading internet and home shopping businesses.

Alan Parker, chairman of Mothercare Plc, said: "I am delighted that Mark will be joining Mothercare on a permanent basis as our new CEO. He has made a substantial difference to the UK business already in the four months he has been with us and is a first-class retailer with a highly successful track record.

“After a rigorous recruitment process, we have chosen a strong and experienced leader in Mark to drive the UK turnaround, and take Mothercare's international business from strength to strength in order to deliver significant value for our shareholders."

Newton-Jones added: "Mothercare and Early Learning Centre are two iconic UK retail brands which have both developed into significant international businesses, serving parents and young children in 60 countries.

“We now need to put in place the building blocks to strengthen the UK performance and I believe there is then a tremendous opportunity to take this business forward. It will be a pleasure to work alongside Mothercare's team of passionate and knowledgeable colleagues as we rebuild the UK and continue to grow our global presence."