Radley has announced the appointment of new company CEO Justin Stead who will start his new role on 6 May 2015.
The upmarket handbag and accessories maker has been enjoying a renaissance in recent seasons and now the British brand will run under the tenure of Stead to reach “new heights”.
Justin is the former CEO of Aurum Holdings, leading the company to major growth in sales and profits from 2007 – 2014 through the Mappin & Webb, Watches of Switzerland and Goldsmith brands. During his time, at the height of the recession, profits quadrupled from £6m to £24m.
Prior to Aurum, Justin spent 8 years at the Fossil Group based in Dallas, Texas where as Senior VP he was instrumental in the significant growth of its watch and jewellery business throughout the world.
Most recently, Stead is the Chairman and investor with private equity in SOFA.com, an industry disruptor with well noted success. He will retain this non-executive Chairmanship with SOFA.com when he joins Radley.
Commenting on the new hire, Roger Best, Chairman of Radley said:
“We are delighted that Justin will be leading Radley. His proven track record in building outstanding success at Aurum and his considerable international experience of developing international distribution and accessories brands will be of significant benefit to us as we grow internationally”.
Stead added: “Radley has great products that combine quality and beauty. As a distinctive London brand, it has all the ingredients to compete on the world stage. Its recent renaissance is highly encouraging I am truly excited to join the Radley Team and to have the opportunity to make my vision for the Radley brand become a reality.”
Originally from Australia, Stead started his career in the US after graduating with an Economics degree and a Masters degree in Business Administration from the University of Texas. Sted worked and moved through the ranks of a number of notable retailers and branded organisations in America before rising to Senior Vice President World Wide for Fossil Jewellery and Watches based out of Dallas, Texas.
Having lived and worked in several countries, Stead possesses a uniquely global perspective not only in the business arena, but in how to inspire and motivate small and large groups of people to achieve important business and personal objectives.
Before being appointed as Chief Executive Officer for Aurum Holdings, he served for 18 months on the Board as Chief Operating Officer and Merchandise Director. Under Stead‘s guidance and leadership, Aurum Holdings went from strength to strength and is a key player within the global watch and jewellery retail sector.
