Next man takes hot seat at easyJet

EasyJet has drafted in Next's John Barton to replace Sir Mike Rake as chairman at the budget airline in a move that should soothe the board's relations with founder Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou. Sir Stelios repeatedly clashed with Sir Mike over aircraft orders and executive pay.

Mr Barton, who takes over in May, also chairs the retail giant Next and the Lloyd's of London insurer Catlin.