Leading UK gift and gadget retailer MenKind has announced it is appointing its first managing director since the company launched in 2001. Simon Calvert takes up the position on August 6, where he will be leading the consumer retail side of the business.
MenKind’s ceo Paul Kraftman explained the reasons behind the appointment. “Simon’s unique combination of skills and experience will be extremely beneficial to MenKind. He 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.”
Added Simon: “The managing director position gives me the opportunity to help shape the business in the coming years alongside Paul, to ensure that it is futureproof. The company is already doing great and is one of the strongest high street players around, thanks to a model that combines permanent stores and temporary pop ups. However, there are additional exciting opportunities in online retail and international expansion which I am keen to explore.”
The newly created role will see Simon work closely with Paul to drive and develop the business, focusing on customer-centric strategies. He will be spearheading the buying and supply chain, retail operations and digital for MenKind, bringing the departments together and making online and offline channels work harder for the brand while navigating socio-economic challenges such as the future of the high street.
Simon brings a wealth of commercial experience and skills to the role, having previously worked for some of the most iconic retail brands over his 28 years in the industry. Previous brands that he has worked with include The Conran Shop, Republic, BHS and Bon Marché. He has also held positions in most of the different functions in a retail business, including merchandising, buying, digital, marketing and retail operations.
MenKind currently has 60 permanent stores and 30 pop ups in the UK.
Top: MenKind in Liverpool One.
