Gap‘s Franchising boss is leaving the company as it prepares to move its franchising operations to the US.

Stefan Laban began at Gap six years ago, becoming the leader of all Gap‘s brands after four years from its base in London. Franchising outside of the US and Europe is a key part of the company‘s growth strategy, and under Laban Gap‘s presence was expanded from 15 to 45 countries, with 400 stores globally.

“Gap is moving responsibility for the brands‘ Strategic Alliances functions closer to the business and product creation in North America, in an effort to streamline how our franchise partners work with our brands,” a Gap spokesperson said.

“With these changes, Stefan Laban well be leaving the company.”