Shop Direct hires former Clarks finance director Mark McMenemy

McMenemy joins the retailer at the end of the year replacing current group finance director Steve Makin.

McMenemy has held senior roles in Marks & Spencer, Clarks, Monsoon and Mothercare, where he stepped in as interim chief executive before the appointment of Ben Gordon.

McMenemy joins the home shopping group - which operates Littlewoods, Very and Ism - from consultant Alvarez & Marsal where he headed up UK retail.

Makin, former chief executive of Umbro, was instrumental in reshaping and restructuring the Shop Direct business according to chief executive Mark Newton-Jones.

He is said to be pursuing a new career and personal challenges. Makin, who has spent four years at the multichannel retailer, informed the board of his intention to leave in April but agreed to stay until a successor was found. He will remain at the group for a number of months after McMenemy joins to ensure a smooth transition.

McMenemy said: “This is a dynamic business with great brands, a lot of scale and solid long-term prospects.”

Newton-Jones said: “I am delighted to welcome Mark to Shop Direct Group.  He has a superb background in finance in the retail industry and will be a great asset as we look to further develop the group into the future.”

Makin said: “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time with Shop Direct and contributing to its transformation over the past four years.  I’m confident that the business will continue to grow and develop and wish the team every success.”