21st Jan 2019 10:58
LONDON (Alliance News) - Superdry PLC on Monday said it appointed Phil Dickinson to be its new creative director, as the fashion brand looks to fend off a boardroom revolt launched by co-founder Julian Dunkerton.
Dickinson, who was a former executive at sneaker giant Nike Inc, will be in charge of product design and steering the creative side of the company.
The industry veteran, has "deep experience of brand, product, design, retail and e-commerce", Superdry said, developed over a 28-year career.
At Nike, he led the turnaround of the Umbro brand, as well as being promoted head of the whole sportswear category in 2010. Since 2013, he has run his own design agency with clients such as Adidas AG, Diadora and Woolmark.
Dickinson's appointment comes after chief product officer Brigitte Danielmeyer left her role before Christmas for personal reasons.
Chief Executive Officer Euan Sutherland said: "Phil is one of the best creatives working in our industry and we are delighted that he is joining Superdry.
"Last summer we kick-started an 18-month product diversification and innovation programme and Phil will bring extra pace, focus and energy to that work."
Meanwhile, Superdry has found itself tangled in a boardroom revolt, as co-founder Dunkerton said he intends to call an extraordinary general meeting of the company's shareholders in a bid to return to the company. He left in March last year.
According to the Sunday Times, Dunkerton has been campaigning to return to Superdry after a string of profit warnings issued by the retailer during the past months.
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/superdry-founder-julian-dunkerton-set-for-clash-35xthd7x8
Superdry shares were trading 3.7% higher at 527.00 pence each on Monday, the third leading gainer in the FTSE 205 index.