Jonathan Akeroyd Appointed Versace CEO
Jonathan Akeroyd Appointed Versace CEO
It was announced just last Monday that Jonathan Akeroyd, the Chief Executive Officer of Alexander McQueen since September 2004, had been made the CEO at Gianni Versace SpA. While his new position is effective immediately, Akeroyd will take the role over in mid-June from Gian Giacomo Ferraris, the company’s CEO since 2009.
“It is an honor to be joining such a dynamic and innovative organization,” Akeroyd remarked in a statement. “Versace is an iconic lifestyle brand recognized globally as a premier name in luxury. I look forward to implementing a long-term business strategy that supports the visionary and creative direction of Donatella Versace and her team. This is an exciting opportunity to take Versace to even greater success.”
“We are delighted to welcome Jonathan Akeroyd as our new CEO,” Donatella Versace, vice president and artistic director, further stating that Akeroyd, “[Akeroyd] brings a proven track record in building global brands, steering growth and driving strategic development. Jonathan Akeroyd’s industry expertise and vision will be key to advancing the next phase of Versace’s development.” After 15 years as the merchandising director for Harrod’s in London, and 12 years at the helm of Alexander McQueen, Akeroyd can boast of an impressive experience that is surely needed, as the company enacts plans to go public in 2017 should market conditions allow it.
“We are proud of our ability to attract visionary leaders,” said Donatella Versace of the departing CEO. “Mr. Ferraris has done a superb job of securing Versace’s status as one of the world’s leading luxury brands. We thank him for his efforts and wish him all the best for the future.”
Early last month Anthony Vaccarello’s own departure from Versus Versace and appointment as the new creative director of YSL was confirmed, though Gian Giacomo Ferraris’ next move has not been revealed.
Jonathan Akeroyd Appointed Versace CEO
