Sears rejigs its top BSC chiefs

Sears is reorganising senior anagement at the giant 1,750-outlet British Shoe Corporation (BSC) and handing the day-to-day running of its eight shoe chains to top directors.

The management changes form part of a move by Sears chief executive Liam Strong to introduce brand management into the 22-fascia retail giant.

BSC marketing director David Rist becomes divisional business director for Hush Puppies, Shoe City and department store concessions. Other changes include retail operations director Peter Ellis becoming divisional business director of Shoe Express and Shoe Connection.

A new position, yet to be filled, has been created for a business director for fashion brands Cable and Dolcis.

Previously, each chain had its own chief, reporting to the BSC board. The changes are an attempt to establish divisions with greater profit accountability.

The reshuffle comes as BSC prepares to test its replacement format for Saxone, called Shoe Connection. The company is understood to be dropping its tests for a format called Orchard.

A spokeswoman for Sears says the developments are similar to those implemented at Sears Sports and Leisurewear division, which has appointed general managers for each of its three divisions: Olympus out-of-town, high street and Millets.

Rist and Ellis will retain their directors’ roles for strategic decisions on the BSC board.