Importing Genuine Talent - Angela Ahrendts
When a brand's image can equate to its success or failure, it is no surprise that the best of top level retail management are in demand elsewhere and tempted with 'big bucks' contracts.
Angela Ahrendts
American born, Angela graduated from Ball State University, Indiana in 1981 with a BA(hons) in Marketing and Merchandising.
In 1989 she took up the role of President at Donna Karan International, laying the foundation for a highly successful career in Fashion Retail.
Below are some ads from Donna Karan during Angela's time at the company;
After a short stint at Henri Bendel, Angela joined Liz Claiborne Inc in 1998 where she stayed for 8 years as Vice President of Corporate Merchandising and Design, heading a range of clothing brands that equated to 40% of the company's sales.
So where to?
Angela joined Burberry in 2006 as Executive Director, becoming Chief Executive Officer the same year. Sales at the British Heritage brand were 'disappointing' in 2005 with Burberry admitting that the 'Chav Effect' (we all remember that Daniella Westbrook photo, fully adorned in the chavtastic Burberry check) had taken its toll on the brand's image. So Ahrendts' arrival could not have been better suited.
Angela's reputation was very apparent with the statements released upon her departure from Liz Claibourne to her new role at Burberry.
Paul Charron, Chief Executive at Liz Claibourne stated;
"Her vision, knowledge and management skill have contributed tremendously to the success of the company."
Tierney Remick of Korn added;
"Liz Claibourne's loss is Burberry's gain"
Burberry have reported soaring profits since Angela's arrival at the brand with her heady mix of experience within both high-fashion and high-street brands she got the 'tone' of Burberry just right.
We think she's one of their most important imports yet.
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