Dr. Martens has appointed two new non-executive directors, bringing seasoned leadership expertise to its board.
US retail veteran Robert Hanson and Benoit Vauchy, a partner at investment firm Permira, will officially join the company on 26 March 2025.
Hanson has an extensive background in consumer brands, having led John Hardy and American Eagle Outfitters as CEO.
His career also includes senior roles at Levi Strauss & Co, where he served as president of the Americas division before becoming global brand president. Additionally, he has held executive positions at Constellation Brands, overseeing its wines and spirits division.
“Robert brings a broad, multidisciplinary skillset and significant experience of the North American market combined with global expertise,” Dr. Martens said in a statement.
Hanson’s board experience spans Canopy Growth, Urban Outfitters, and Constellation Brands, and he was recently named CEO of US wine company The Duckhorn Portfolio.
In addition, Vauchy represents Dr. Martens’ largest shareholder, investment firm Permira, where he sits on both the investment and executive committees.
He has served on the board of eDreams ODIGEO for a decade, contributing to its transformation, and has also held board positions at Universidad Europea, VacanceSelect, and Exclusive Networks.
Before joining Permira in 2006, he spent six years at JPMorgan in London and Frankfurt.
Chairman Paul Mason welcomed the appointments, stating: “Robert has significant USA and wholesale experience and is a proven consumer brand CEO. Benoit is an experienced financial leader, and his appointment demonstrates Permira’s commitment to Dr. Martens.”
Shares in Dr. Martens rose 1% to 72p following the announcement.
Russ Mould, investment director at AJ Bell, noted that while non-executive appointments don’t typically attract market attention, these changes come as the company works to improve its struggling US business.
He added that Permira’s decision to place another representative on the board reflects its continued interest, given its 38.36% stake in the company.
Click here to sign up to Retail Gazette‘s free daily email newsletter
