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Global Fashion Group (GFG) has appointed Jere Calmes as chief executive officer of The Iconic.
Calmes is described as a “seasoned” executive with over 25 years of leadership experience across multiple sectors, and is rejoining GFG after a three-year tenure as CEO of Lamoda, which GFG sold in late 2022.
During his tenure, Calmes led Lamoda to grow NMV by over 140% to around €1.3bn (£1.1bn), with “consistently strong” profitability and positive cashflow since 2021. Under his leadership, active customers reached nearly 4 million, with order frequency increasing to over 5x per year.
The Iconic, which has over 2.2 million active customers, is poised for its next phase of development under his leadership. GFG said his extensive international experience in building e-commerce platforms and his global industry networks “bring a broad perspective that will have a positive impact on the business”.
Christoph Barchewitz, CEO of GFG, said: “We’re extremely pleased to have Jere rejoin GFG as CEO of our ANZ business. His impressive track record in fashion e-commerce and adjacent sectors, leading sizable consumer-facing operations, make him an ideal fit for The Iconic.
“Jere is also familiar with the business and the significant opportunities ahead. I am really looking forward to working with him again and am confident he will continue building on The Iconic’s success. On behalf of the GFG team, I would also like to thank Erica for her significant contributions to The Iconic and wish her all the best for the future.”
Calmes added: “I am honoured to be joining The Iconic and working with such a professional and dynamic team once again, both in Australia and across GFG. As one of the most loved e-commerce platforms in the region, offering the strongest assortment of local and international brands, the team has done an amazing job to evolve the business and I can’t wait to play a part in this fascinating future.”
Erica Bertchtold, outgoing CEO, The Iconic concluded: “While it is bittersweet to be leaving The Iconic, I am delighted to hand over the reins to Jere who has been a trusted colleague for over three years as part of the GFG Executive team. I am confident Jere and the team will take The Iconic to new heights and I look forward to welcoming him soon.”
