Radice rocks the boat at M&S

MARKS & Spencer stores chief Vittorio Radice signalled that it would be a disaster to hire a new chairman with no understanding of retailing to replace Luc Vandevelde.

Radice said: 'This is a brand that is an icon. Being chairman of Marks & Spencer is one of the most important jobs in retailing. We need somebody with personality, charisma, warmth and a big heart.'

The outspoken Italian, who joined Marks 14 months ago from Selfridges, has been ready to rock the boat at the traditionally reticent M&S.

At the preview of its autumn clothing range, he promised the new ranges would make a splash with shoppers. Ladies' formalwear has been renamed smartwear to reflect the move away from suits to separates.

Radice said: 'We know we are suffering a lot on formalwear and gaining in casualwear.' Kids' clothing 'has been a problem area but I can see the light'.

Originally taken on to launch the Lifestore home concept, Radice now has the sweeping title of director for home, clothing and store development, raising queries about the role of chief executive Roger Holmes.

Creative director Yasmin Yusuf said Marks' clothes ranges 'are not standing still. We are doing our best to move on and respond to the market'. The latest collection will be 'more contemporary' with a greater emphasis on cut and style.

Yusuf defended the new per una due teenage range, which has been mocked by the fashion Press. She blamed the 'mood of the moment' for the reaction.

Marks needs to find a new chairman fast to recover favour with investors and dispel the risk of a bid.

Most analysts want a chairman who can bolster Holmes' retail skills and halt the slide in sales, though some think Marks would prefer governance supremo Sir Derek Higgs or fund manager Paul Myners.

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