Neptune appoints Will Kernan as chairman
Neptune has appointed former River Island chief executive Will Kernan as its chairman as it looks ahead to its next stage of growth.
Kernan headed up River Island for over three years until April this year and, prior to that, led sportswear specialist Wiggle Chain Reaction Group. He is also a former chief executive of The White Company where he worked for over five years.
In his new role, he will work closely with the interior and lifestyle brand’s senior leadership team and chief executive Aalish Yorke-Long, who joined the business in November 2022.
Kernan is also currently chairman at Biscuiteers.
Yorke-Long said: “We are thrilled that Will is bringing his skills as a retail leader to Neptune. His extensive knowledge of the luxury and retail sectors will provide invaluable support to our senior team as we build and execute our strategies to drive the brand forward at a very exciting time in its history.”
Since taking up her role, Yorke-Long has been working to bolster Neptune’s senior leadership team. New hires have included Jamie Bennet as commercial director, Harry Melsom as head of marketing, and Lauren Quelch Woolls as head of product.
Kernan added: “It is a privilege to be joining this iconic British design brand as chairman. Neptune is a unique proposition in the market thanks to its design expertise and high-quality manufacturing capabilities, its extensive retail network and deep brand awareness. I look forward to building on these strong foundations and working with Aalish and her team to move the brand forward.”
