Mothercare marketer in sudden departure

Julie Wither, marketing manager of Storehouse-owned Mothercare, has left the company suddenly. It is not known if she has a job to go to.

She reported directly to Mother-care managing director Greg Tuf-nell. The company is seeking a marketing director as part of the strategic review of the marketing department instituted by Tufnell.

Tufnell, former managing director of Burton Menswear, was appointed last November to replace ousted managing director Simon Hughes.

Michele Waters, formerly stores trading manager for Mothercare, has taken up the position of marketing manager.

The company states: “Julie Wither left Mothercare (Wednesday January 27) to pursue alternative career interests and our brand marketing area is currently under review.”

Last November, when Storehouse, which also owns Bhs, announced its interim results, chief executive Keith Edelman blamed like-for-like sales growth of 1.9 per cent on a flat childrenswear market. He said the appointment of Tufnell was part of a drive to develop market leadership.