Weird Fish, the UK lifestyle clothing brand, today announces the appointment of David Butler as its new chief executive officer.
David has significant multi-channel retail experience and was most recently chief executive of Crew Clothing where he worked for seven years, doubling turnover to more than £120m in that time. Prior to Crew Clothing, David was Managing Director Europe of Ecco where he developed the retailer’s strategy and expansion in Europe and grew the estate to more than 300 outlets across the continent.
David takes over from John Stockton who has led Weird Fish since 2008 and has transformed it from a niche to a mainstream leisure clothing brand.
Commenting on today’s news, Weird Fish Chairwoman Sally Bailey, said: “On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank John for the important impact he has made at Weird Fish. His leadership over the last fourteen years has been a significant factor in growing the business into the leading lifestyle brand that it is today. John has shown commitment and passion and will be missed by staff and suppliers alike. I want to take this opportunity on behalf of us all to wish him the very best for the future. We are delighted that John has agreed to stay with us to work on developing our international business.
“I’d like to welcome David to the Weird Fish shoal. He has significant retail experience both in the UK and overseas and a proven track record in developing clothing businesses. I look forward to him leading the brand to further success.”
David grew Crew Clothing’s store estate by almost 30% to 100 stores during his seven years with the business and significantly expanded the retailer’s online presence as well as developed brand partnerships with iconic British sporting institutions including Williams Racing, Henley Royal Regatta and LTA Tennis for Britain.
David Butler, said: “Weird Fish is a great business and one that I have followed for many years. I’m looking forward to building on the success already achieved and developing the brand further.”
