Hush, the contemporary women’s fashion brand, has appointed industry veteran Philip Mountford as chairman as it eyes expansion both in the UK and internationally.
Mountford had until last year been CEO at Dutch underwear brand Hunkermöller and before that had been CEO at Moss Bros in the UK. His CV also includes names such as Versace, Daks, Nautica and Simpson Piccadilly.
He joins Hush, which is backed by specialist retailer investor True, following its relaunch last year in which it reaffirmed its laid-back luxe positioning. He replaces another industry veteran Susanne Given in the role. Given had held the non-executive chair’s role for four years.
CEO Sarah Miles, who joined the business in 2022 having previously headed beauty etailer Feelunique (now Sephora UK), said of the appointment: “I’m delighted to welcome Philip as Chairman of Hush. He brings extensive executive retail experience, both in the UK and internationally, having held incredible CEO positions during his stellar career. I and the rest of the leadership team look forward to working closely with Philip to deliver Hush’s growth ambitions in our next chapter.”
Mountford added: “I am excited to join Sarah and her team on this amazing brand journey. Hush has great brand values and a real point of difference, which will enable it to grow both physically and digitally over the next stage in the brand’s development. I am delighted to be part of the team driving the long-term growth of the business.”
Hush has been part of the True portfolio of private equity brands since 2020. Paul Cocker, Co-Founder and CEO and Co-Founder at True said: “I am really pleased to be adding someone of Philip’s calibre and experience to both the Hush team, and the wider True network. It’s been a tough period for the apparel sector over the last couple of years but for those brands, like Hush, that continue to thrive there is an exciting opportunity ahead and I am sure Philip will help us capitalise on that, both in the UK and internationally.”
Hush was founded in the UK by Australian Mandy Watkins and her husband Rupert Youngman in 2003. Watkins stepped back from the creative director role last year and was replaced by Melissa Dick, who had previously been with Coach. Watkins remains as brand ambassador.
The brand is primarily sold via its website but is also available through Next and John Lewis.
