Menkind, a leading UK gift and gadget retailer, has announced it is appointing its first managing director since the company鈥檚 formation in 2001. Simon Calvert will be assuming the position on the 6th of August, leading the consumer retail side of the business.
The newly created role will see Simon work closely with CEO Paul Kraftman to drive and develop the business, focusing on customer-centric strategies. He will be spearheading buying and supply chain, retail operations and digital for Menkind, bringing the departments together and making online and offline channels work harder for the brand while navigating socio-economic challenges such as the future of the high street.
Simon brings a wealth of commercial experience and skills to the role, having previously worked for some of the most iconic retail brands over his 28 years in the industry. Previous brands he has worked with include The Conran Shop, Republic, BHS and Bon March茅. He has also held positions in most of the different functions in a retail business, including merchandising, buying, digital, marketing and retail operations.
Paul Kraftman explained the reasons for appointing Menkind鈥檚 first managing director: 鈥淪imon鈥檚 unique combination of skills and experience will be extremely beneficial to Menkind. He has built his professional background in both start-ups and corporate enterprises and can understand our business from end to end, which makes him a very attractive partner to have on board鈥�.
Simon Calvert added: 鈥淭he managing director position gives me the opportunity to help shape the business in the coming years alongside Paul and ensure it is futureproof. The company is already doing great and is one of the strongest high-street players around, thanks to a model that combines permanent stores and temporary pop ups. However, there are additional exciting opportunities in online retail and international expansion, which I am keen to explore.鈥�
Simon will join the business on 6th August聽 2019, just ahead of the brand鈥檚 peak trading season.聽
