Kenji, a home and gifting retailer, is poised for significant growth with strategic leadership changes.
- Eddie Shepherd, former CEO of Clintons, has been appointed Managing Director to drive UK growth.
- Suzanne Harlow, ex-CEO of Jack Wills, joins as chair of Kenji’s new board.
- The retailer plans to double its high street presence, opening a flagship store in Westfield London.
- These appointments underscore Kenji’s commitment to innovation and customer excellence.
Kenji has made strategic appointments to bolster its growth in the UK retail sector. Eddie Shepherd, previously at the helm of Clintons, has been named the new Managing Director. Shepherd, who joined the company in August, brings over two decades of retail experience, emphasizing the alignment between Kenji’s innovative values and his personal ethos. His leadership is expected to propel Kenji’s expansion strategy across the UK high streets.
In concert with Shepherd’s appointment, Suzanne Harlow, with her extensive experience from Debenhams and Jack Wills, steps in as chair of Kenji’s newly established board. Her expertise in international markets and managing multi-brand strategies is anticipated to facilitate Kenji’s ambitious growth plans.
Kenji’s vision includes expanding its high street presence from 10 to 21 stores by 2025. This strategy will be highlighted by the unveiling of a flagship store in Westfield London and the enlargement of existing stores in Warrington and Bury, following their Manchester Trafford opening.
With these leadership enhancements, Kenji aims to enhance its market presence and deliver exceptional value to customers. Both Shepherd and Harlow’s track records promise to be instrumental in achieving Kenji’s forward-thinking goals.
Derek Yong, the retailer’s operations director, acknowledged the combined expertise of Shepherd and Harlow as invaluable to steering Kenji’s upcoming chapter. Yong emphasized their roles in not only driving the business forward but also in supporting high street revitalization across the UK.
Kenji’s recent leadership appointments mark a pivotal move towards expanding its footprint and enhancing customer experience across UK high streets.
