THE ICONIC names new CEO

In mid April, THE ICONIC CEO Erica Berchtold announced she would be departing the business to lead Best & Less later this year. The search for a replacement is complete with seasoned executive Jere Calmes taking the helm.

THE ICONIC parent company Global Fashion Group (GFG) has today announced the appointment. Calmes has over 25 years of leadership experience rejoins GFG off the back of a successful three year tenure as CEO of Lamoda, which GFG sold in late 2022. Under his leadership, Lamoda grew NMV by over 140 percent.

“We’re extremely pleased to have Jere rejoin GFG as CEO of our ANZ business,” said GFG CEO Christoph Barchewitz. “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.

He also thanked departing CEO Erica Berchtold for her contributions to the business over her four years with the company. “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.”

Erica Berchtold, outgoing CEO of THE ICONIC expressed her confidence in Calmes leadership. “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,” she said.

According to GFG, THE ICONIC is poised for its next phase of development under Jere’s leadership, with his international ecommerce experience and global industry networks bringing a much desired ‘broad perspective’ to the role.  This year, THE ICONIC has expressed plans to prioritise profit and cash flow after a period of slow growth off the back of the Covid sales boom.

“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,” said Calmes.” As one of the most loved ecommerce 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.”

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