New Look's Will Kernan jumps ship to White Company

Kernan is leaving to become chief executive of homewares and fashion retailer White Company.

Kernan is understood to have been in the frame to become chief executive of New Look, which has been led by executive chairman Alistair McGeorge following the ousting of former chief executive Carl McPhail in March.

New Look has suffered a string of departures following McPhail’s exit. In October, Retail Week revealed the move of ecommerce director Dom McBrien who will join Marks & Spencer.

Group marketing director Joe Irons left New Look to join Monsoon Accessorize in August, while chief marketing offer Nick Cross left in May, after less than six months.

Kernan, who has worked for New Look for almost 12 years, will leave in the new year. It is not known if a replacement has been found.

McGeorge said: “I and the rest of the board would like to thank Will for the contribution he has made to New Look during his time in the business. We wish him all the best in his new role.”

Kernan said: “I am proud to have been part of the team that has helped build such a strong high street brand, and I am excited by the fresh challenge that the role at The White Company offers.”