John Cheston suddenly departs prior to new posting.

 

The managing director of fashion stationery chain Smiggle has been fired for “serious misconduct” just nine months before he was due to depart and take over as chief executive at another company.

 

John Cheston’s employment was terminated last week by The Just Group, which said in a statement they considered he had engaged in serious misconduct and breached his employment terms.

 

“On that basis, his employment has been terminated today,” the statement read.

 

Cheston was announced as the new chief executive of jewellery retailer Lovisa in July, with the appointment due to begin in June next year.

 

The Just Group, owned by Premier Investments, also operates retails stores Peter Alexander, Just Jeans, Portmans, Dotti, Jacquie E and Jay Jays. 

 

PHOTO: Premier Investments chairman Solomon Lew (left) with John Cheston. Credit: SUPPLIED/PR IMAGE