John Smedley has announced the appointment of Jess McGuire Dudley as its new Managing Director, marking a significant shift as the first person from a creative background to assume the role. Formerly Deputy MD and Global Brand Director, Jess will officially take over in April, succeeding Ian Maclean MBE, who moves into the Executive Chairman role after 25 years in the business.

Jess’ leadership arrives at a pivotal moment, aligning with the company’s strategic focus on modernising both manufacturing and product design. Since its establishment in 1784 in Derbyshire, John Smedley has remained a cornerstone of British knitwear, and Jess has been instrumental in transforming its marketing and sales strategy. Her efforts have led to double-digit growth in global sales, with e-commerce surging by 80% and retail stores by 6%. The company has also expanded its presence with two standalone stores in London, additional wholesale showrooms in London and Milan, and 11 stores in Japan, with more planned for 2025 and 2026.

Our brand values remain British, Iconic, and Responsible - principles that will guide us into the future

“There is a real love between me and this business, and I am determined to ensure it thrives for decades to come,” Jess McGuire Dudley stated. “The commercial landscape is challenging for UK-based manufacturing brands, with hurdles such as US tariffs and tax increases. However, we are prepared to face these challenges head-on with innovative strategies to sustain John Smedley as ‘The World’s Finest Knitwear.’”

Operating from its historic Lea Mills site in the Derwent Valley, John Smedley is the world’s oldest manufacturing factory still in its original location. Jess emphasised the company’s commitment to British fibre, supporting spinners and farmers while integrating British innovation into its operations. “By breathing new life into craftsmanship, we can reshape perceptions and attract fresh talent to our industry,” she added.

Jess first joined John Smedley in 2014 as Head of Marketing, spearheading initiatives that bolstered the brand’s relevance and stature in luxury knitwear. Recognised in Drapers’ Top 30 under 30 list in 2015, she has since been shortlisted for The Design Leader of the Year awards for her leadership in brand transformation and female-led initiatives.

Her tenure has seen collaborations with key Japanese retailers on a ‘Made in Japan’ collection, as well as partnerships with The Campaign for Wool and British farmers to incorporate locally sourced fleece. She also launched the ‘JS x John Smedley’ line with John Lewis, introducing circular yarns to a wider audience, and revitalised the company’s third-party production arm at its Derbyshire headquarters. Additionally, John Smedley’s product range has expanded through licensing agreements with key Japanese partners.

Looking ahead, Jess aims to futureproof both the company and British craftsmanship by establishing a talent bank to nurture young professionals in knitwear manufacturing. With 275 employees, John Smedley holds a Royal Warrant of Appointment from His Majesty King Charles III for fine knitwear. “I am committed to making John Smedley a place where people can learn, grow, and contribute to a thriving industry,” Jess concluded. “Our brand values remain British, Iconic, and Responsible—principles that will guide us into the future.”

www.johnsmedley.com