Lingerie specialist is interim CEO at JJB

JJB Sports, the struggling sportswear retailer which shucked off its Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Keith Jones last Friday, has announced retail veteran Beverley Williams as Jones's interim replacement.

Williams, who has spent more than 25 years in senior executive positions in the retail trade, will join the business with immediate effect and work closely with Chairman-designate Bob Corliss and the management team as they seek to turn around the company's fortunes.

Williams's most recent gig was as Commercial Director and co-CEO of La Senza. Prior to joining La Senza in 2007, she was General Manager for Contessa, the lingerie retailer and oversaw its revival and integration into the La Senza business.

Subscribe to MoneyWeek

Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE

Get 6 issues free

Sign up to Money Morning

Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter

Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter

Sign up

Commenting on the appointment, Bob Corliss said: "Beverley brings a wealth of experience in multi-channel retailing, which forms a core part of the JJB offering. She is particularly well known for her expertise in product and trading."

Reaction to the appointment has not been positive, with the shares trading down a halfpenny at the end of the lunchtime session at 5.50p.

JH