Simon Kneen, executive vice president of design and creative director at Banana Republic, is to leave the company in December.

Kneen’s departure will come at the end of a stellar year for the US high street brand, known for its polished dresses, smart separates and designer collaborations.

August saw the launch of the brand’s Serengeti-inspired collection with Duchess of Cambridge favourite, Issa, while December sees the much anticipated arrival of its limited edition collaboration with .

British-born Kneen has held the sought-after Banana Republic position since January 2008 but, as for his next move he remains tight-lipped. Jack Calhoun, Banana Republic's global brand president commented: ‘As we compete to win on the global stage, now is the right time to make a change.’

But with no one in the frame as yet, the search is on.

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