Chief Executive Officer

THE OPPORTUNITYOur client is a prestigious scale-up British luxury brand with a global reputation for exceptional design, premium craftsmanship, and innovation in a niche market segment. The company has built a passionate, design-conscious community and established international recognition over decades.The organisation is at a pivotal inflection point, requiring both creative revitalisation and commercial turnaround. This is an opportunity for an accomplished executive to lead stabilisation and renewal, redefining growth trajectory while preserving the brand’s artisanal DNA and cultural authenticity.This is a hands-on, entrepreneurial leadership role suited to a pragmatic yet visionary executive comfortable navigating a small, agile organisation while instilling discipline, accountability, and creative energy.KEY RESPONSIBILITIESStrategic LeadershipDevelop and implement a clear recovery and growth strategy aligned with the brand’s creative DNA and long-term ambitionsConduct comprehensive diagnostic of current operations, identifying underperforming areas and immediate corrective actionsLead expansion into profitable channels, markets, and partnerships with strong ROI focusBuild trust and alignment with key stakeholders—investors, distributors, production partners, and collaboratorsShape a medium-term roadmap that balances creative excellence with financial performanceCommercial & OperationsOwn all commercial functions (sales, marketing, e-commerce, distribution) with direct, hands-on engagementRebuild and strengthen sales pipelines, focusing on both wholesale and direct-to-consumer growth with emphasis on digitalImprove operational efficiency, supply chain visibility, and cost control to restore profitabilityEstablish robust budgeting, forecasting, and KPI tracking to ensure financial transparency and performance accountabilityOptimise product mix, pricing, and margin structure for sustainable unit economicsBrand & ProductReinforce luxury positioning while refreshing creative direction for renewed market relevancePartner closely with design and production teams to ensure consistent innovation and qualityDevelop capsule collections, collaborations, and limited editions to generate visibility and desirabilityElevate brand storytelling, digital presence, and communication to reconnect with core audiences and attract new customersTeam & CultureInspire and re-engage the team through clarity of purpose and collaborative leadershipBuild a performance-driven culture that values craftsmanship, authenticity, and agilityIdentify skill gaps and strengthen key profiles in sales, marketing, and operationsFoster accountability, creativity, and pride in executionGovernance & CommunicationReport monthly to the Board on strategic progress, financial results, and key risks/opportunitiesFoster transparency and trust with shareholders, articulating clear vision and turnaround milestonesRepresent the company externally with press, partners, and strategic clients as a credible and inspiring ambassadorIDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILEProfessional BackgroundMinimum 15+ years of professional experience with at least 5 years in executive or senior management rolesProven track record in luxury, design, or lifestyle brands preferredDemonstrated success in business turnaround, brand repositioning, or profitable scaling in international marketsDirect P&L ownership, financial oversight, and operational transformation experienceDeep understanding of premium brand management, digital commerce, and omnichannel growthKey CompetenciesStrategic visionary who is equally grounded in execution and operational detailEntrepreneurial mindset with decisive decision-making in resource-constrained environmentsStrong commercial acumen combined with genuine appreciation for design, craftsmanship, and cultural storytellingResilient and pragmatic—comfortable leading through change and uncertaintyCharismatic leader capable of inspiring teams and rebuilding confidence internally and externallyFluent in English; additional European languages are advantageousPersonal AttributesVisionary yet pragmaticEntrepreneurial and decisiveCulturally intelligent and authenticPassionate about design, craftsmanship, and brand heritageComfortable in small, dynamic environmentsWHAT WE’RE LOOKING FORWe are seeking an executive who can balance seemingly competing priorities: honouring artisanal heritage whilst driving commercial growth, leading with creative vision alongside operational discipline, and building team confidence whilst maintaining financial rigour.The ideal candidate will have experienced managing through transformational periods and understand how to unlock value in established brands through strategic repositioning without compromising authentic cultural positioning.COMPENSATION & TERMSCompetitive fixed salary commensurate with experiencePerformance-based incentivesPotential long-term equity participationNegotiable based on candidate profile and experienceNEXT STEPSThis is a confidential retained search. We welcome conversations with accomplished executives who recognise themselves in this brief, even if they are not actively exploring opportunities.Suitable candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience in business transformation, luxury brand management, and international commercial scaling.This information is strictly confidential and intended solely for the purpose of this executive search.