Pandora completes chief executive transition
Pandora has announced that its chief marketing officer Berta de Pablos-Barbier will become its new chief executive on 1 January.
As confirmed back in September, de Pablos-Barbier will succeed Alexander Lacik. However, the transition will complete earlier than the previously set date of the brand’s AGM in March due to a smooth handover and Jennie Farmer taking on the role of chief marketing officer.
Peter Ruzicka, chair of Pandora, said: “The handover from Alexander to Berta has been exceptionally smooth. With Jennie Farmer stepping in as CMO, we are pleased to be able to conduct the leadership transition faster than planned. We look forward to the next era of growth under Berta’s leadership.”
Farmer joined Pandora in January after a 25 year career working with global luxury and consumer brands. She started out at Procter & Gamble’s fragrance business and then held senior roles at De Beers and LVMH. Most recently, she served as chief commercial officer at furniture retailer Oka and chief marketing officer at The Office Group.
Lacik has decided to retire after almost seven years as president and chief executive of Pandora. Since joining the company in 2019, he has led a successful turnaround and executed the growth strategy to transform Pandora into a full jewellery brand. He will remain with business as special advisor to the board and executive leadership team until the AGM.
Ruzicka said: “I want to thank Alexander for his outstanding leadership. Since he joined, Pandora’s revenue has grown by 45%, and total shareholder return has exceeded 200%. He leaves the company with a strong foundation and significant growth potential. We look forward to celebrating his achievements at the annual general meeting.”
