Cath Kidston has appointed former John Hardy boss Melinda Paraie to take the helm as its former chief executive departs.
Paraie will take on the top job from June 18 when she will enter a handover period with Kenny Wilson, who revealed earlier this week that he was jumping ship to footwear brand Dr Martens.
She has spent just under a year at New York-based jewellery company John Hardy, and her new role will see her relocate to the UK at Cath Kidston’s West London headquarters.
Prior to this, she spent seven years at Coach in various roles, starting her career with the brand as vice president of global merchandising in 2009, before progressing to senior vice president of merchandising in Asia, and subsequently for North America.
She brings with her a raft of experience in the fashion sector, having also held roles at J.Crew, Gap, Barneys and Express.
“Melinda creates consumer-centric models, and builds brands that fully integrate product development, marketing, stores and digital, bringing life and energy to the customer experience,” Cath Kidston chairman William Flanz said.
“She will take Cath Kidston on the next stage of its successful journey and I am delighted that she has agreed to move to London to do this.”
Paraie added: “I am so delighted to be joining Cath Kidston. I believe the brand has a fantastic growth story. Cath Kidston has a wonderfully light-hearted charm and modern appeal, and its cheerful story resonates with existing and new customers.
“As an American, I love the uniquely British characteristics of the brand which has worked so well in international markets and I am ready to now enhance the emotional connection which the brand has with its customers. I really enjoyed working with the team in London last year and am very excited to be joining them next month.”
Click here to sign up to Retail Gazette‘s free daily email newsletter
