Not On The High Street appoints Jessica Nesbitt as CEO
Nesbitt is also leading efforts to evolve the brand from a purely gifting-focused platform to a destination for lifestyle, home, interiors and all things self purchase
Not On The High Street has appointed Jessica Nesbitt to the role of CEO, replacing Leanne Rothwell, who is stepping down after two-and-a-half years at the helm of the company and an overall 13-year tenure.
Nesbitt, Not On The High Street’s current chief growth officer, will step into the role of CEO starting this month, after a transition period. She has been with the business for 12 months, originally joining as VP Marketing.
Nesbitt brings nearly 20 years of experience spanning marketplace, fashion and retail in senior growth, strategic, commercial and marketing roles. Prior to joining Not On The High Street, she worked with brands including Farfetch, Labelux, The Outnet (Net-A-Porter Group) and Debenhams.
Since joining the business, it said she has already played a “pivotal role” in launching several new initiatives aimed at enhancing the customer experience and supporting the UK’s vibrant independent retail sector.
These include the introduction of ‘Brands in Residence’ – a programme designed to onboard more high growth UK-based brands that align with the company’s ethos while enriching the overall product offering.
Nesbitt is also leading efforts to evolve the brand from a purely gifting-focused platform to a destination for lifestyle, home, interiors and all things self purchase – making it easier for customers to shop more frequently for themselves, not just others.
In parallel, the business has launched AI-driven search and discovery tools, which will significantly improve product findability, personalisation and browsing, all part of a strategy to deepen customer engagement and drive sustainable growth.
Nesbitt said: “I’m delighted to be stepping into the CEO role at such an exciting time for the business. Not On The High Street is a much-loved brand and we know that consumers are looking for more thoughtful and ethical ways to shop. I look forward to driving the business forward as we look to expand our product offering, grow our partnerships and strengthen the customer experience – further championing independent retail in the UK, widening our appeal and winning the hearts of consumers nationwide.”
Rothwell added: “It’s been an honour and a privilege to lead Not On The High Street and to have been part of its journey for over a decade. In that time, I have worked closely with so many inspiring small brands – our Partners – who contribute so much to the UK through their creativity, local employment opportunities and commitment to innovation.
“I leave the company as it embarks on an exciting next chapter and I am so delighted to see Jessica take on the role of CEO and continue to drive the business forward for our team, customers and small brand community.”