End Clothing announces the departure of chief buying and merchandising officer Lea Cranfield, effective August.
- Terry Betts is appointed as interim successor, starting 1 July, until a permanent replacement is found.
- Cranfield joined End Clothing in May 2023 from Yoox Net-a-Porter, leaving a significant impact on the team.
- Promotions within the company include Dean Walker to director of sports and energy and Sevcan Halit to buying manager.
- CEO Parker Gundersen expresses gratitude for Cranfield’s contributions and enthusiasm for Betts joining the team.
End Clothing, a noted player in the luxury retail market, has confirmed the impending departure of its chief buying and merchandising officer, Lea Cranfield, who will exit the company in August after just over a year of service. Cranfield’s tenure with End Clothing began in May 2023, having moved from Yoox Net-a-Porter, bringing her expertise to strengthen the company’s capabilities.
To ensure a smooth transition and continuation of leadership, End Clothing has appointed Terry Betts as the interim chief, effective from 1 July. Betts, who previously held the role of director of special projects at Los Angeles-based luxury brand The Elder Statesman, will temporarily oversee the buying and merchandising portfolio. Betts has a robust background, having served in senior roles at Thread and Selfridges, and is expected to bring his extensive experience to End Clothing while the search for a permanent successor is finalised.
During her period at End Clothing, Cranfield made significant contributions, enhancing critical functions within the organisation and fostering development within her team. Her departure marks the end of a brief but influential chapter, with both CEO Parker Gundersen and Cranfield expressing mutual respect and the intention to maintain connections. Gundersen highlighted Cranfield’s impact, particularly in discovering emerging brands and curating relevant assortments for the community.
Further changes in the team include internal promotions, such as Dean Walker, who has been promoted to the role of director of sports and energy, and Sevcan Halit, elevated to buying manager overseeing various departments. These changes align with the company’s strategy to strengthen its leadership structure and continue its growth trajectory.
In addition to internal promotions, End Clothing has bolstered its team by hiring Louise Schwartz from Mr Porter as a senior buyer, as the company looks to further enhance its buying and merchandising capabilities. This hiring reflects the ongoing commitment to adapt and grow in the competitive retail landscape.
The leadership changes at End Clothing signify strategic moves to ensure sustained growth and adaptation in the luxury retail sector.
