Footasylum announces strategic leadership changes to enhance its growth strategy and market position.
- Former Under Armour executive, Will Van Rensburg, joins as Chief Commercial Officer.
- Glen Wilkinson, previously with Reebok, takes on the role of Senior Buying Director.
- The retailer aims to drive growth with newly secured £35m funding from HSBC.
- Footasylum reports a significant increase in pre-tax profits, emphasising successful expansion efforts.
Footasylum has made a decisive move to bolster its leadership by hiring former Under Armour executive, Will Van Rensburg, as Chief Commercial Officer. This strategic appointment aims to utilise Van Rensburg’s extensive experience to oversee commercial operations and drive the retailer’s growth strategy.
Joining Van Rensburg is Glen Wilkinson, who will assume the role of Senior Buying Director. Previously a product chief at Reebok, Wilkinson will commence his duties later this month, collaborating closely with Chief Product Officer Leon Mullin. Wilkinson brings valuable experience from his tenure at Ecco, Reebok, and New Balance, most recently serving as Head of Buying and Merchandising at Italian sports retailer AW Lab.
Newly appointed CEO, David Pujolar, expressed enthusiasm for the new hires, stating, “I am delighted to welcome Will and Glen to the business. Their extensive experience across a range of companies and geographies will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our position in the market. Together, they will help drive our growth strategy and enhance our product offerings, ensuring that Footasylum remains at the forefront of the fashion streetwear and sportswear industry.”
Adding momentum to these leadership changes, Footasylum recently secured a £35m funding package from HSBC. This financial boost is set to support the company’s expansion and sustainability initiatives across the UK and beyond.
The retailer’s strategic efforts have already begun to pay off, with a notable 112% surge in pre-tax profits to £6m for the year ending 27 January, up from £2.8m. This financial success is attributed to the opening and upsizing of stores, demonstrating the effectiveness of Footasylum’s growth-oriented strategies.
These strategic appointments and financial advancements set Footasylum on a promising path for future growth.