A featured contribution from Leadership Perspectives, a curated forum for enterprise technology leaders, nominated by our subscribers and vetted by the CIOApplications Editorial Board.
Group Director of Technology at N Brown Group
Transforming N Brown: A Modern Tech Journey with a Heritage Backbone
Through this article, Christopher highlights the technological transformation of N Brown and emphasises the importance of keeping pace with the rapidly changing digital landscape and unlocking new opportunities for the business through technology.
As Group Director of Technology at N Brown, I lead the technological transformation of a company that dates back to the 1800s. Well, known for brands like Jacamo, Simply Be, and JD Williams, N Brown is evolving from its origins as a catalogue company into a modern, microservices-driven pure-play retail platform. Since joining last year, I have focused on ensuring that N Brown not only keeps pace with the rapidly changing digital landscape but thrives in it.
We operate under a three-speed framework—run, grow, and transform—that allows us to deliver continuous improvements while executing long-term strategic initiatives.
In my role, I oversee software engineering across the business, including front-end web, mobile apps, middleware, microservices, and our ageing mainframe technology (Cobol and Assembler). In addition, I’m responsible for QA, platform management (on-prem and cloud), IT operations, and major third-party contracts. It's a diverse and challenging portfolio, but I’m passionate about driving growth through technology and unlocking new opportunities for the business.
A Varied Career Journey
Before joining N Brown, I was fortunate to gain experience across several industries. I started my career in telecommunications at Orange and later moved into financial services, where I spent six years leading tech delivery at first Direct and Lloyds Banking Group, including the successful rollouts of Apple Pay and Google Pay. I then transitioned into travel at TUI, where I managed mobile apps and global payment systems. This varied background equipped me with the skills and insights needed to lead large-scale transformations like the one we’re undertaking at N Brown.
One of our most significant accomplishments has been adopting the Spotify agile-at-scale model, working in tribes and squads to improve how we deliver value across the business. We operate under a three-speed framework—run, grow, and transform—that allows us to deliver continuous improvements while executing long-term strategic initiatives.
To date, we’ve launched a cutting-edge website for our three strategic brands, powered by React and Next.js, with a micro front-end strategy. We also delivered a strategic headless CMS, which has greatly improved the flexibility of our content management across platforms. Our introduction of a new Product Information Management (PIM) and Digital Asset Management (DAM) system further optimises the customer experience. At the same time, we are re-platforming our financial services infrastructure, setting the stage for sustained growth.
The migration of our mainframe to a new data centre marks the start of our broader modernisation program. This crucial step lays the foundation for greater scalability and flexibility, as we look to replace the legacy systems that have supported the business for decades. Next year, our focus will shift to transforming our core business capabilities, which will be pivotal in delivering improved efficiency and agility across the business.
People, Process, and Technology
At N Brown, inclusivity is embedded within our strategic pillars and is a driving force behind our transformation. By building a differentiated brand portfolio through JD Williams, Simply Be, and Jacamo, and elevating our fashion and fintech propositions, we cater to a wide array of customer needs. Our approach ensures that everyone, regardless of age, size, background or financial means, has access to quality products and services. Through customer-first experiences, leveraging data as an asset, and continuous innovation, we remain committed to inclusivity and serving the underserved at every stage of our business.
To realise this vision in technology, I’ve worked hard to establish chapter models within our teams, focusing on improving the synergy between people, processes, and technology. The chapters have zeroed in on critical improvements: from enhancing code quality, standardising technologies, and embedding DevSecOps, to increasing test automation, refactoring code to be more modular, and introducing structured people development paths guided by the SFIA framework.
Leading a team of over 200 people, I’m incredibly passionate about mentoring future tech leaders and fostering an environment where innovation thrives. My focus has been to increase our existing capability whilst expanding partnerships into new geographies. Our global talent expansion allows us to source the best talent across different regions while keeping a competitive edge and balancing our costs.
Personal Motivation and Values
While work is a significant focus for me, my personal life is also a source of inspiration and focus. I’m a single father to a remarkable son, a liver transplant survivor who is now thriving. Being there for him has taught me the importance of resilience and focus, values that I bring into my work. I’m ambitious, always driven by the desire to deliver meaningful outcomes, and I take great pride in inspiring my team to reach new heights.
Outside of work, I find peace in the outdoors, where you’ll often find me rock climbing, walking, or kayaking. I’m originally from Newcastle upon Tyne and now settled in the rugged landscapes of the Yorkshire, on the edge of the Dales. Whether it’s scaling cliffs or leading a business through technology transformation, I’m always looking for the next challenge.
Looking Ahead
As we continue this exciting journey at N Brown, I’m focused on driving our transformation through technology, delivering meaningful value to our customers, shareholders, and colleagues. I strongly believe in creating the right environment and culture to empower people, making them feel valued and aligned with N Brown’s mission. People are at the heart of any successful transformation. By implementing a chapter approach combined with full-stack agile squads, organised within tribes and driven by clear OKRs, we’ve aligned technology and strategy more effectively. Authentic leadership is key to fostering this alignment and ensuring that our teams are motivated, empowered, and driving our collective success.
With a commitment to continuous improvement and a focus on outcomes, I’m confident we’ll continue to set new standards for what a tech-driven retailer can achieve in a rapidly evolving market.
