Ted Baker chair John Barton has died

John Barton, the chairman of the fashion chain Ted Baker and the former chair of easyJet and Next, has died.

Ted Baker said the 77-year-old City stalwart, who was appointed non-executive chairman of the troubled fashion retailer last year, died suddenly.

“John was a source of great wisdom for me and for so many of us at Ted Baker and we will hugely miss his support and guidance,” said Rachel Osborne, the chief executive of Ted Baker, who joined a month before Barton’s appointment in April 2020.

“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his wife, Anne, and their family.”

Barton stepped down as chairman of easyJet last week.

“I am truly shocked and extremely saddened to hear of John’s passing,” said Johan Lundgren, the chief executive of easyJet.

“I was very fortunate to have worked closely with him over the years and benefited greatly from his wise counsel. He was a man of huge integrity who was very much liked and respected by everyone across the airline.

“On behalf of all of his former colleagues at easyJet, we send our heartfelt sympathies to John’s family at this time. He will be greatly missed.”