Kate Bostock

Marc Bolland’s arrival last year as Marks & Spencer chief executive prompted speculation about how well-established directors such as Kate Bostock would get on with the new man.

Some say the pair have had their differences but more than a year on, Bostock retains her role as general merchandise supremo and her eye for what women want to wear has helped M&S ride turbulent trading conditions.

Bostock’s power was demonstrated by the 50 basis point rise to 11.7% in M&S’s clothing market share last year as shoppers proved willing to trade up on the back of the style, quality and value of Bostock’s ranges. General merchandise like-for-likes rose 3.2% over the same period.

Her empire is changing under Bolland’s plans, however. He was concerned about the distinctiveness of sub-brands and duplication - an issue Bostock acknowledged - and to change that there has been some restructuring and brand managers are being appointed.

Bostock was once seen as a potential successor to Sir Stuart Rose, but has said she never wanted the top job at M&S. That hasn’t diminished her status however - she was spoken of as a potential successor to Carl McPhail as boss of New Look.