19 Aug Dr Martens Appoints Steve Murray CEO
Dr. Martens appointed Steve Murray, former president of VF Action Sports Coalition and president of Vans, as CEO.
Murray was most recently president of Europe, Middle East and Africa for Deckers Outdoor, whose brands include Ugg, Teva and Sanuk. His previous roles include global president at Urban Outfitters. He was president of VF Action Sports Coalition from February 2009 to March 2010 responsible for the Vans and Reef brands, and was the President of Vans from July 2004 to January 2009 prior to its acquisition by VF.
Murray will replace David Suddens, who has been chief executive of Dr Martens for 12 years and is to become non-executive chairman of the company. The changes follow Dr. Martens’ acquisition by private equity group Permira for £300million in January.
Murray said in a statement: “It’s one of the great, iconic footwear brands worldwide and in addition one of the most identifiable British brands across any product category. While the last few years have seen tremendous growth for Dr Martens I believe that many opportunities exist beyond the current channels, markets and product lines.”
The company also named Henrik Holmark of Danish jewellers Pandora as chief financial officer. Holmark, who will join the company towards the end of the the year, had been CFO at Pandora since 2009.