Asos director James Hart set to depart after 13 years

Hart is working a six-month notice period following his resignation, and the executive team was told of his departure last week.

It is not clear if he will be replaced, according to Drapers.

Hart was hired by Asos boss Nick Robertston and business partner Quentin Griffiths in 2000.

Hart has not yet lined up his next role, but said he was keen to find a role where he would continue to work with consumers.

He said: “I like to make a difference to the customer and I am going to look at opportunities where I can work closely with them – whether that’s working in a start-up environment or starting something on my own, I’m quite relaxed about it.”

Hart has worked with Robertson since he graduated in 1996.

“It’s been an amazing time but I have something else within me – I don’t know what that is yet and I’m genuinely open to consider anything and I’m leaving with enough time in my career to start something new.

“I feel like I have achieved something that I am immensely proud of and I have a great team that can carry forward that strategy.”

Hart has been responsible for customer experience on its desktop and mobile sites. He oversaw the launch of Asos Marketplace which enables other retailers to sell on the retailer’s website.

This month Asos has bolstered its management team, hiring Amazon finance boss Shaun McCabe while promoting four senior executives to retail director roles.

Maria Hollins was promoted to retail director, Stefan Pesticcio was appointed to retail director for menswear, Nick Loveday was made retail director for womenswear and Louise Jenkins-Yates has been promoted to the newly created role of retail director for outlet.

In July, Asos executive director of product and trading Kate Bostock resigned after being in the business just seven months.