Harrods chief merchant Helen David quits for "new ventures"

By

Sandra Halliday

Published
Jun 28, 2018

Harrods confirmed late Thursday that its chief Merchant, Helen David has stepped down from the role. The luxury London department store told Fashion Network: “Harrods can confirm that after 10 successful years, Helen David is stepping down from her role as Chief Merchant, to pursue new ventures.” 

A company spokesperson added that “Helen’s talent and drive have been instrumental in the continued success of Harrods, and she has made an outstanding contribution to the business.

“She has, however, decided the time is right to explore other opportunities. We are very grateful for her dedication throughout her tenure, and wish her the best for the future.” 

The company hasn’t said whether it will directly replace her nor who might take up the role.

Harrods didn’t go into further details about the executive who joined the company in 2008 in a buying role, but it’s undeniable that David made a major a impact while there in all of the senior roles she held. She became Chief Merchant in 2016 and had also been womenswear, accessories, fine jewellery and kidswear Fashion Director, putting her at the heart of the luxury categories for which the firm is famous

During her time at the retailer she was responsible for headline-grabbing developments including its fine jewellery refurbishment, the development of its Shoe Heaven footwear area, plus the Superbrands and kidswear Mini Superbrands areas. 

The Superbrands floor reflects the importance of ultra-luxury as competition among department stores at the very top of the price scale becomes more intense and they also find themselves competing for attention with individual luxe brands’ own retail operations.