Former Mothercare finance director Harrington joins Cath Kidston

Harrington’s appointment as chief financial officer of the quirky fashion and homewares business represents the latest strengthening of the management team following the retailer’s acquisition by TA Associates in 2010 in a deal valuing it at £100m.

Following the transaction, former Asda, Matalan and Somerfield boss Paul Mason was drafted in as chairman. Kenny Wilson – who worked with Mason at denim giant Levi’s – was appointed chief executive last October.

As well as finance expertise, Harrington brings international experience from Mothercare to Cath Kidston, which is building its international operations as well as expanding in the UK.

Harrington will take over from incumbent finance director Julian Ghinn.

Since TA took a majority stake in Cath Kidston, the retailer has performed strongly. In the last financial year operating profit leaped from £7.6m to £14.7m on sales up 37% to £68.9m.

Harrington was headhunted for the Cath Kidston role by Fran Minogue of Clarity, who also placed Mason and Wilson there.