N Brown looks to Joules for next design head

The Manchester-based firm, which owns the JD Williams, Simply Be and Jacamo brands, said Low would join on 21 November.

Currently head of design at the clothing and lifestyle brand, Low is replacing Neil Hendy, who is leaving after two years in the role.

Sarah Welsh, chief executive of retail at N Brown, said: "[Helen] has a wealth of design, innovation and strategy experience from across the fashion industry.

"She joins at an exciting time for the business, as we continue to elevate our fashion proposition through our differentiated brand portfolio."

Low said: "As N Brown looks to increase its own-designed product, I am looking forward to working with the team to enhance its produce offer."

Low joined Joules from Debenhams, where she was design director. She has also worked at Next, Marks & Spencer and George at Asda.

Last month N Brown reported a slide in half-year sales and profits as consumers, rocked by the cost of living crisis, cut back on discretionary spending.

Joules has also been hit by weak consumer confidence and in September announced a turnaround programme. But on Monday, the struggling brand said sales had failed to pick up, and it was in advanced discussions with investors - including founder Tom Joule - about a potential cornerstone investment.

As at 1030 GMT, shares in AIM-listed N Brown were down 4% at 22.04p.