Independent department store chain, Morley Department Stores, has appointed Melanie Smallwood as its first chief trading officer (CTO). Smallwood joins the company this month, bringing over 30 years of senior retail leadership experience to the role, which will see her take full responsibility for the Group’s buying and merchandising function.

Smallwood’s background spans some of the UK’s most prestigious luxury and premium department stores, including Harrods, where she held P&L responsibility for the Womenswear and Kidswear divisions, and Harvey Nichols, where she served as global buying director. Most recently, Smallwood served as chief commercial and brand partnerships officer at Global Fashion Group, where she led trading and commercial strategy across 12 countries.

The appointment marks the culmination of Morley’s efforts to bolster its senior leadership team, following the recent appointment of Judd Wilson as chief financial officer in October, and Ray Clacher as CEO in January.

Commenting on Smallwood’s appointment is Bernard Dreesmann, Chairman of Morley Department Stores Limited.

“On behalf of the Board, I am delighted to welcome Melanie Smallwood to the Group. We are extremely flattered that Melanie has agreed to join us at this critical time for the business. Our new management team, together with a multi-million-pound investment into our latest new store, Jolly’s of Bath, opening later this year, signifies our commitment to strengthening the independent department store sector. Melanie’s extensive department store career will prove invaluable to us.”

Ray Clacher, CEO, adds, “Many of us in premium/luxury retail know Melanie well. I could not be happier that we managed to convince Melanie to join us on this exciting journey for this Group, which will proudly be 100 years old in 2027. I look forward to working with Melanie and all the senior team to show that the community department is still a vital mainstay of the British high street.”