Kenji aims to accelerate its UK growth with strategic hires, tapping former CEOs Eddie Shepherd and Suzanne Harlow.
- Eddie Shepherd, ex-Clintons CEO, joins Kenji as its new managing director, bringing over two decades of retail experience.
- Suzanne Harlow, former CEO of Jack Wills, steps in as chair of Kenji’s newly formed board, strengthening international strategy.
- Kenji plans to double its high street presence by 2025, targeting to expand from 10 to 21 stores.
- A flagship store opening in Westfield London is part of Kenji’s ambitious expansion plans.
Homewares retailer Kenji has made significant leadership appointments to drive its growth strategy in the UK. The company, known for its Asian-influenced homeware and gifts, has recruited Eddie Shepherd as the new managing director. Shepherd, who previously served as the CEO of Clintons, brings extensive experience with more than 20 years in the retail sector, including six years at the helm of Clintons.
Suzanne Harlow has been appointed as chair of Kenji’s newly established board. Harlow’s leadership experience includes her tenure as CEO at the fashion brand Jack Wills and a substantial career at Debenhams. Her expertise in international markets is expected to be pivotal as Kenji looks to innovate and expand its offerings.
Kenji’s ambitious growth plans include doubling its retail outlets on the high street by 2025. This expansion will see their footprint grow from the current 10 locations to 21. The opening of a flagship store in Westfield London is a prominent part of these plans, alongside enlarging their existing stores in Warrington and Bury after their Manchester Trafford flagship opening.
Shepherd expressed enthusiasm about the alignment of Kenji’s commitment to innovation and customer excellence with his professional values, looking forward to contributing to its growth trajectory. Harlow, alongside Shepherd, is anticipated to provide strategic guidance that underpins Kenji’s market expansion and customer value delivery.
Kenji’s Operations Director, Derek Yong, commented on the appointments, highlighting the strategic advantage offered by Shepherd’s retail acumen and Harlow’s leadership proficiency in steering Kenji’s next growth phase.
Kenji’s strategic appointments of seasoned executives position it well for a dynamic growth phase in the UK retail market.
