// Card Factory hires Darcy Willson-Rymer as chief executive
// Willson-Rymer will replace Karen Hubbard
// He will join office in March next year
Card Factory has appointed Darcy Willson-Rymer as chief executive, replacing Karen Hubbard who resigned earlier this year.
Willson-Rymer had previously led Clinton Cards, and joins Card Factory from convenience food retailer Costcutter, where he was chief executive for eight years.
At Costcutter, he was responsible for the development of a new operating model, better use of data and a brand overhaul that generated a 20 per cent rise in sales.
READ MORE: Card Factory swings to £22.2m half-year loss
He will join office in March next year.
Willson-Rymer was at Clinton Cards from 2011 to 2012, but was unable to prevent it from going into administration.
“Darcy has excellent credentials and experience to lead Card Factory through the next phase of our evolution and to continue to lead the implementation of the refreshed strategy,” Card Factory chair Paul Moody said.
“He has experience successfully leading a complex, multi-site retail business in Costcutter, held senior positions in customer service-centred global branded businesses in Starbucks and Yum, in particular, where he led a business with an operating model encompassing both owned and franchised units.
“Darcy brings highly relevant knowledge and experience that will hugely benefit Card Factory.”
Willson-Rymer said: “My ambition is to unlock the true potential of the business by delivering its transformation strategy in the UK and internationally.”
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