LeMieux hires new CFO and chair as it targets international growth
LeMieux has appointed James Davenport as chief financial officer and Richard Cotter as non-executive chairman, as it enters its next phase of international growth.
Davenport has joined the clothing, footwear and equestrian brand from Neal’s Yard Remedies, where he served as chief finance officer.
Subscribe to TRBPrior to that, he spent more than 21 years at Innocent Drinks as chief operating officer, after joining the business during its early growth phase when it had revenues of around £7 million. Davenport (pictured) has been credited with playing a key role in the transformation and international expansion of the business, helping it grow to approximately £470 million in annual revenue. This included supporting the launch into new international markets and establishing the company’s own manufacturing facility.
At LeMieux, he will lead the brand’s global finance organisation, supporting the company’s continued investment in product innovation, digital capability, international expansion and operations.
Dan Mahoney, chief executive of LeMieux, said: “James brings an exceptional combination of financial leadership, operational expertise and experience scaling internationally recognised consumer brands. His track record of supporting sustainable growth and building high-performing teams makes him an outstanding addition to our executive leadership team, and we’re delighted to welcome him to LeMieux.”
Meanwhile, Cotter has previously been global brand president of outdoor brand Berghaus, chairman of German outdoor and lifestyle brand Jack Wolfskin, and executive chairman of pet retailer Jollyes.
He currently serves as chairman of The Sleep Group, Absolute Collagen and the Kindred nursery group. LeMieux said his experience in building brands, scaling retail businesses and leading organisations through periods of significant growth will be particularly valuable as it continues its international expansion.
Mahoney said: “Richard’s experience and leadership will be invaluable as LeMieux enters its next phase of growth. He brings a wealth of commercial and strategic expertise, and his appointment further strengthens our board as we continue to build LeMieux into a truly global equestrian and lifestyle brand.”
