Next Announces Leadership Changes as Veteran Director Retires

Next has announced the upcoming retirement of Jane Shields, its long-serving Group Sales, Marketing and HR Director, in May. Shields will officially step down from the board on May 21st, marking the end of a remarkable 40-year career with the company.

Shields began her journey with Next in 1985 as a sales assistant, demonstrating consistent dedication and skill throughout her tenure. Her progression through the ranks saw her promoted to Sales Director in 1999, and subsequently to Group Sales & Marketing Director in 2010. She joined the board in 2013, solidifying her position as a key leader within the organization.

The company has appointed Matt Barnes as the new Group Sales and Marketing Director to succeed Shields. Barnes, also a Next veteran having joined in 1999, will assume responsibility for the majority of Shields’ operational duties, including e-commerce, brand marketing, retail stores, and online customer services. He currently holds the position of Online Customer Service Director, but will not be joining the board immediately.

In addition to Shields’ departure, Next also announced the retirement of Jonathan Bewes, Senior Independent Director and Chairman of the Audit Committee, on May 21st, after nine years of service. These changes are accompanied by the appointment of two new independent non-executive directors: Annette Court, effective March 1st, and digital specialist Jeni Mundy, effective April 1st.

Annette Court will take on the role of Senior Independent Director on May 21st, following Bewes’ retirement. Furthermore, Soumen Das will be appointed as the new Audit Committee Chair, also effective May 21st, completing a series of significant board-level transitions for Next.