// Menkind appoints Simon Calvert to the newly-created role of managing director

// Calvert will join office on August 6

// He will be responsible for developing customer-centric strategies

Menkind has hired Simon Calvert as the company’s first managing director.

Calvert will join the gift and gadgets retailer on August 6, and will be responsible for developing customer-centric strategies and leading the buying, supply chain, and retail operations including online.

He will report to Menkind chief executive Paul Kraftman.

“Simon has built his professional background in both start-ups and corporate enterprises and can understand our business from end to end, which makes him a very attractive partner to have on board,” Kraftman said.

He joins from Bonmarche where he served as trading director since 2017, and the merchandise director for womenswear at BHS from 2007 until 2012.

Calvert said he was keen to explore international expansion at Menkind.

“The managing director position gives me the opportunity to help shape the business in the coming years alongside Paul and ensure it is futureproof,” he said.

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