Jigsaw incoming chief executive Peter Ruis to return innovation to fashion retailer

Ruis, at present John Lewis buying and brand director, takes up his new post on September 3 and told Retail Week: “Jigsaw has always been hugely innovative.”

He said Jigsaw, which now has more than 40 stores, led the way when it launched as a high street boutique specialist in 1972, paving the way for rivals such as Whistles.

Ruis has ambitions across the business. “Generally the cliché at the moment is that everything is going digital but ultimately it’s about the simple things,” he said. 

“The brand has to be tip-top and amazing across all channels in terms of digital, mobile and shops. Shops are just as relevant as they were and they are still the main touch point for the customer.” 

Jigsaw returned to the black last year, recording a £1.5m pre-tax profit in the year to September 2012, against a £21.2m loss the previous year.

Ruis leaves John Lewis after nine years at the business.

John Lewis managing director Andy Street said: “Peter has revolutionised our fashion, home and technology offer and led our marketing team to its first-ever Cannes Lion win. 

“We will all be sad to see him go and wish him the very best of luck in his new role.”

Ruis will be replaced by Paula Nickolds, who is being promoted from her current role as buying director for home.

Prior to John Lewis, Ruis worked at Ted Baker as head of product and then moved on to jeans brand Levi Strauss as brand director. He started his career at Marks & Spencer as a graduate trainee.

It is understood that a number of other appointments will be made at Jigsaw in the next few weeks as the retailer aims to further bolster its senior management team following Ruis’ appointment.