Global Fashion Group continues to switch up leadership
By Dean Blake
In order to fuel the “next phase of its development”, Global Fashion Group, the parent company of The Iconic, Zalora, and other online fashion platforms, has revealed further leadership changes.
Namely, director of group finance Helen Hickman will take over as chief financial officer, with current CFO Matthew Price exiting the business in August. Hickman’s appointment comes after the business’ co-CEO Patrick Schmidt stepped down, and Christoph Barchewitz took over in March.
Zalora’s CEO Gunjan Soni also took over as GFG’s chief operations officer earlier this year, while The Iconic will soon be led by Jere Calmes.
“The transformation of the executive team reflects the priorities and change in complexity and scale of the group,” Barchewitz said.
“With a leaner and refreshed leadership structure, we are more focussed than ever on continuing to advance our platform vision whilst prioritising profitability.”
On his exit, Price said he felt his time at GFG had been a privilege, and that he was leaving the business well-positioned for its next phase of development.
Hickman noted she is looking forward to applying her knowledge of the business’ global operations to drive GFG’s strategic principles.
Asos appoints sustainability expert as non-executive director
By Dean Blake
Online fashion retailer Asos has appointed Anna Maria Rugarli, an expert in the fields of sustainability and corporate social responsibility, as a non-executive director. Rugarli will also serve as the company’s ESG committee chair.
Asos chairman, Jorgen Lindemann, said the business will benefit from her expertise.
“[Rugarli] joins us with a wealth of ESG experience from some of the biggest brands in global apparel,” Lindemann said. “We look forward to working closely with her.”
Rugarli also serves as a board member at luxury fashion house Prada, and has formerly worked for businesses such as Nike and VF Corp.
Nespresso names new head of Oceania
By Dean Blake
Nespresso New Zealand’s managing director Stegan Vermeulen will step into the role of MD of Nespresso Oceania, following 12 years within the business, as of 1 July.
The change comes as the former MD for Oceania, Jean-Marc Dragoli, relocates to Switzerland to take up the position of Nespresso’s global head of authorised brands.
“We truly believe that coffee can be a force for good for people, communities and planet, and the more we drive sustainable growth, the more we can have a positive impact as a brand and organisation through the entire value chain,” Vermeulen said.
“For Australians and New Zealanders, coffee plays such an important role in their lives, so delivering exceptional coffee experiences … is paramount.”
Vermeulen noted that the business will lean further into its sustainability initiatives in order to drive its shift toward net zero.
Yum Brands appoints new head of Taco Bell
By Dean Blake
Yum Brands has promoted Taco Bell’s global chief brand and strategy officer Sean Tresvant to the role of division chief executive officer, replacing Mark King, who will retire at the end of 2023.
Tresvant will report to Yum’s group chief executive officer David Gibbs, and will assume global responsibility for Taco Bell’s growth, performance, and franchise operations.
Prior to joining Taco Bell in 2022, Tresvant spent 15 years at Nike, where he served as the chief marketing officer of the Jordan Brand, among other roles.
“The love our fans and team members have for Taco Bell is extraordinary,” he said.
“I’m grateful to have worked alongside Mark, and I’m incredibly honoured and excited to continue partnering with our talented team and amazing franchisees on Taco Bell’s magic formula.”
