Iain Nairn named as president of Hudson’s Bay brand

By

Gabriella Lacombe

Published
Jan 14, 2020

Saks Fifth Avenue owner Hudson’s Bay Company has named Iain Nairn as its new president of the Hudson’s Bay brand, effective January 12, 2020. 

Nairn comes to the role with a wealth of leadership experience in multiple markets, including Australia, New Zealand, the U.K., Europe, Asia and South Africa. He most recently served as chief executive officer of Kikki.K, a global Swedish design and stationery business.

Previously, he has also held roles as CEO of David Jones, Australia’s leading premium department store chain, as chief executive of Country Road Group, and as CEO of Witchery Group.

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As president of the Hudson’s Bay brand, Nairn replaces Alison Coville, whose exit was first announced nearly a year ago in February, 2019. 

In the role, Nairn reports directly to Helena Foulkes, CEO of HBC.

“We took time to conduct a thorough, worldwide search to ensure we found the right person to lead the business and steward the Hudson’s Bay brand,” Foulkes said.

“[Nairn] brings strong leadership, sharp focus and in-depth expertise that I believe will make a positive impact on Hudson’s Bay. To date, the team has made great strides in fixing the fundamentals, evolving our service model and elevating our merchandise assortment. There is a tremendous opportunity in Canada to deliver an outstanding customer experience and I am excited to work with [Nairn] to elevate the brand and drive performance for future success.”

Nairn joins the brand after parent company Hudson’s Bay agreed to be taken private last week, via a deal in which the company will buy stocks held by certain minority stakeholders for C$11 ($8.46) apiece in cash.