Secret Sales, the premium e-commerce marketplace, has recently welcomed six new senior executives to its leadership team. These executives, renowned as a “dream team” of accomplished retail professionals, bring a wealth of experience from the fashion industry’s biggest brands. The new appointments come as Secret Sales expands its operations both domestically and internationally, and it prepares to enter new markets in the upcoming months.
Heading the team is Shahnila Rashid, who joins as the chief trading officer. Rashid has a remarkable track record in scaling businesses and previously worked for nine years at TJX as VP and merchandising director. During her tenure, Rashid played a vital role in expanding the presence of TK Maxx in Europe and launching the brand’s website. Before joining Secret Sales, Rashid also served as CEO of retail and e-commerce at SR Retail Consultancy, where she facilitated transformational change programs for various companies.
Fiona Lay, a digital pioneer in the department store sector, has been appointed as the digital director. Lay brings valuable experience from her 17 years at Debenhams, where she played a crucial role in the company’s transition into online shopping. Prior to her time at Debenhams, Lay also worked as a senior merchandiser at Marks & Spencer.
Sarah Savva, the new external relationships director, previously held the position of business lead for third-party brands at M&S. During her tenure, Savva focused on implementing M&S’s strategy of introducing third-party fashion brands online. With an impressive 29 years of experience at Debenhams, Savva brings a deep understanding of the retail industry to her new role at Secret Sales.
Joining the team as the customer excellence director is Cathy Reid, a retail expert with a strong background in customer experience. Reid has held notable positions, including head of customer experience at Mountain Warehouse, customer director at Ann Summers, and head of retail and store operations at Mamas & Papas.
Lucy Malcolm Green has taken on the role of head of digital merchandising. She previously served as team leader for digital merchandising at Mytheresa, where she played a pivotal role in developing the luxury fashion retailer’s merchandising strategy across its European and worldwide websites. Green has also gained experience working at renowned brands such as Pandora, Harrods, and Ralph Lauren.
Completing the “dream team” is Stacey Sue, who joins as the finance director. Sue brings extensive experience from her previous roles at luxury retailer Lulu Guinness and Matchesfashion.
Chris Griffin, CEO of Secret Sales, expressed his excitement about the new appointments, stating, “These appointments signify a major milestone for Secret Sales as we continue to grow and solidify our position as the largest non-full-price marketplace for fashion and beauty worldwide. Our new team members understand the power of our business model and the need for a brand-enhancing partnership route for non-full-price stock. Secret Sales is revolutionizing the fashion industry by providing this platform, and their expertise will be crucial in fulfilling our promise to become the dominant player in the premium discount space.”
In addition to the senior management team, Secret Sales has also expanded its workforce by hiring 20 additional staff members to support all departments across the business. This growth comes as Secret Sales prepares to launch in new territories this autumn. With a “dream team” of senior executives and a growing workforce, Secret Sales is well-positioned to achieve its ambitious goals in the e-commerce marketplace.
Useful links:
– Secret Sales website
– Business of Fashion article on Secret Sales
