Michael Kors promotes from within for presidential roles

Michael Kors spring/summer 2016

U.S. apparel label Michael Kors is moving two executives up in its ranks, filling out key leadership roles with known entities.

Philippa Newman, currently senior vice president, European sales and merchandising for accessories, footwear, women’s ready-to-wear and menswear, will become the brand’s president, accessories and footwear, while Michelle Chan, the senior vice president of merchandising, is being promoted to president, women’s ready to wear. Both of the promotions are the result of succession planning, as Michael Kors looks toward the future of its company’s leadership.

Moving on up
Ms. Newman has been with Michael Kors since 2003, coming to the brand with experience in merchandising and sales roles at Alexander McQueen, Donna Karan, Calvin Klein and Tory Burch. Prior to her promotion to senior vice president, she was the director of sales for women’s collections in the United States.

In her new position, Ms. Newman will report to Anna Bakst, group president, accessories and footwear.

Michael Kors’ fall/winter 2016 runway show

Ms. Chan came to Michael Kors in 2007 with more than a decade of experience at companies such as Lord & Taylor and Ann Taylor. She was the vice president of retail merchandising at Michael Kors before being appointed to her current senior vice president position.

When she starts in her new position, Ms. Chan will be reporting to Gia Castrogiovanni, group president, women’s ready-to-wear.

To make a smooth transition, both women will remain in their current roles for a year, creating a gradual shifting of duties to their successors.

“We are very pleased to announce the promotions of Philippa and Michele, both of whom have already made strong contributions to the company during their tenures,” said John D. Idol, chairman and CEO of Michael Kors, in a statement.

“Philippa has contributed significantly to the growth of our European business over the past seven years, as she worked to solidify partnerships with department stores and specialty stores across the region,” he said. “Michele has been instrumental in growing our retail business, as she built the infrastructure in our retail stores both domestically and internationally.

“The promotions of Philippa and Michele are the result of our succession planning process as well as our training and development initiatives designed to foster a team of best-in-class leaders.”

Michael Kors resort 2016 collection

Internal promotions are a way for companies to gain leadership that is familiar with their organization from the start.

Italy’s Safilo Group, which manufactures and distributes eyewear for licensed brands including Fendi and Dior, has appointed Henri Blomqvist as its new CEO of North America.

Mr. Blomqvist has worked for Safilo for three years as its chief commercial officer, during which he redeveloped the group’s go-to-market strategy, centering his efforts on boosting sustainability and quality of distribution. This new hire is part of Safilo’s 2020 plan, which aims to establish leadership in key markets around the globe, one of which is North America (see story).

from Apparel and accessories – Luxury Daily https://www.luxurydaily.com/michael-kors-promotes-from-within-for-presidential-roles/
via Your #1 Source to Finding Luxury & Designer Goods, Handbags & Clothes at or Below Wholesale: Click Here.