Mulberry chairman Godfrey Davis to step down

Mulberry has announced that its chairman, Godfrey Davis, intends to step down from the board of directors on 30 September 2022. The board said it would “like to put on record” its thanks for his outstanding contribution.

Davis has been with the company since joining in 1987, first as a finance director, then chief executive, and finally, as chairman. 

It is reportedly intended that Davis remains associated with Mulberry as “life president” in a non-board role to “continue to allow the group to benefit from his extensive experience”.

Andrew Christopher Roberts, currently a non-executive director, will take up the position of non-executive chairman with effect from 30 September 2022. At this time, he will resign from the audit and nominations and remuneration committees of the board.   

Roberts, a fellow of the Chartered Association of Certified Accountants (ACCA), was appointed to the board on 6 June 2002. He is said to have broad experience in international property markets, the branded luxury hospitality sector and global financial markets, and is currently managing director of Como Holdings UK Ltd.  

In addition, the board intends to appoint an additional independent non-executive director and name a senior independent director in the near future.

Davis said: “It has been a privilege to hold the position of chairman of this iconic British luxury brand. Over the past decade, Mulberry has continued to innovate and thrive, resonating with a growing global consumer base that desires sustainable, quality craftsmanship. 

“The business is in a strong financial position and I would like to take this opportunity to thank all my colleagues and the whole team at Mulberry for their support over the years.”

Thierry Andretta, CEO of Mulberry, said: “I would like to thank Godfrey for the outstanding contribution he has made to the group. Over the past 10 years he has provided sound counsel, direction and support to the board of directors and we wish him well for the future. 

“I am delighted to welcome Chris to the role of chairman at Mulberry and am looking forward to working more closely with him.”

Chris Roberts, incoming chairman, added: “Mulberry is a unique business that has continued to evolve while staying true to its heritage as a sustainable luxury brand.

“I would like to thank Godfrey for his terrific service to the group, and I am looking forward to working more closely with the board and management to continue to drive forward our strategy.”