H&M appoints new managing director of Great Britain and Ireland

H&M has appointed Karen O’Rourke as the new managing director of Great Britain and Ireland, the Swedish fashion group said on Thursday. She succeeds Henrik Nordvall.

O’Rourke has more than twenty -five years of experience at H&M. It will be responsible for around 7,000 employees: inside and over 200 branches in Great Britain and Ireland. In addition, she is responsible for digital platforms in one of the “most important markets worldwide”.

Her career at H&M started in the branch. Since then she has held fourteen positions in the areas of branch, area management and sales as well as at the global headquarters. Most recently, O’Rourke worked as a sales manager for the Nordic countries. There she successfully led teams to improve the customer experience and to promote growth in several regions, the group said.

In an explanation, H&M announced that O’Rourke was selected for the role due to her “deep understanding of retail and its proven ability to lead transformations”. This will “make a decisive contribution to shaping the future of H&M in the region, developing the brand and its growing customer base”.

O’Rourke said to her new position: “I look forward to leading H&M Great Britain and Ireland while we focus on growth, innovation and deepening of our customer relationships. Our upcoming event at the London Fashion Week reflects our commitment to creativity, craftsmanship and a higher designer. Drive the key market. “

H&M will return to the London Fashion Week on September 18 with a co-ed catwalk show.