N Brown appoints first global communications director

N Brown Group, the online, catalogue and stores retailer, has named Ed Watson as director of global communications to help promote the group’s portfolio of fashion brands.The new role, created by CEO Angela Spindler, who joined the group in July, is

part of her strategy plan to raise the profile of the group’s brands, which includes plus-size online retailer Simply Be, menswear site Jacamo, and lingerie brand Figleaves to be “the leading global retailer famous for making shopping for fashion easy and enjoyable regardless of size”.

Watson joins N Brown from Debenhams, where he held the position of director of PR in charge of promoting the brands portfolio, social media and charity strategy as well as supporting international franchise stores. During his time at Debenhams, Watson is credited for pushing the department store’s inclusivity agenda through the use of more diverse models, the banning of retouching to alter models’ body shapes, and the introduction of size 16 mannequins. He is also a member of the Government’s Body Confidence Advisory Committee.

He will take up his new role in spring 2014 and will be responsible for all communications for the group, with a remit to develop an “innovative and creative” approach to raise the profile of the group’s fashion brands to make them “famous”.

N Brown appoints Debenhams director

Commenting on her first major appointment since she became CEO, Spindler said: “I have worked with Ed before and I am delighted to welcome him to the team. His remit is global from the outset and key in our strategy to make N Brown’s brands famous.

“We have really well developed capabilities in creating fashion that properly fits and flatters our customers and we intend to develop and drive this as a platform for our external communication. Ed’s experience and innovative, inspirational approach to communications will be an excellent asset to N Brown.”

Watson added: “I believe N Brown is one of the most exciting retail businesses, with a strong brand portfolio that has significant opportunities. I have a passion for establishing brands and making them famous through challenging campaigns and I am really looking forward to working with the team and joining the next chapter of the company's success story.”

Prior to Debenhams, Watson held roles at Asda and George at Asda, where he oversaw the launch communication of the brand around the globe in Wal-Mart territories.

N Brown looking to open 20 stores

As well as looking to increase brand awareness it has also been reported that the online fashion group is looking to expand its presence in the UK. According to The Telegraph, N Brown, has hired property agents to find locations for 20 shops for its Simply Be and Jacamo brands.

“We’re looking for locations which will be suitable to house our brands, Jacamo and Simply Be, and complement our established and thriving internet and catalogue businesses,” Guy Price, N Brown’s new property acquisitions manager told The Telegraph. “Demand from our customers for stores is high, and having a retail presence helps to support the wider business.”

Images: Simply Be and Jacamo