Marks & Spencer has announced significant changes to its clothing, home and beauty leadership team, with former Boohoo Group chief executive officer John Lyttle set to take over as managing director.

Lyttle, who brings extensive retail experience from his five years at Boohoo and nine years as chief operating officer at Primark, will join M&S on 3 March. He will succeed Richard Price, who has led the division since 2020 and is departing to pursue a portfolio career.

M&S chief executive officer Stuart Machin praised Price's tenure, saying: "Thanks to Richard's leadership, the clothing, home and beauty business is now on a much stronger footing with improved product. Style perceptions have increased consistently and our lead on quality and value has extended, driving growth in sales and market share."

The retailer has also promoted Maddy Evans, currently director of womenswear, to an expanded role as director of M&S Woman, which will include responsibility for lingerie. Charlotte Davies, who recently joined as director of lingerie from Hunkemöller, will report to Evans.

In another key appointment, David Brittain will join as director of home and beauty at the end of April from his current role as business development director for Amazon Fashion Europe. He will replace Heidi Woodhouse following a handover period.

Speaking about his appointment, Lyttle said: "M&S is somewhere I have always wanted to work, and it is a real privilege to join the clothing, home and beauty business at a time when there is both so much momentum and opportunity. I can't wait to get started."

Machin emphasised that while progress has been made, there remains significant work ahead: "Changes underway to embed strategic sourcing partnerships, a modern planning platform and an efficient logistics network are nascent and there is lots to do to develop a truly omnichannel clothing, home and beauty business."

The leadership changes will be fully implemented by the end of April, with Price completing his handover to Lyttle before departing on 30 April.

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