Paul Smith names new managing director

Zareem-Slade will support the British brand’s evolution, with a particular focus on digital acceleration, commercial performance, and customer experience.

She most recently served as chief executive for fine jewellery brand Annoushka, leading the brand’s growth agenda and expanding its wholesale distribution.

Before that, Zareem-Slade was the customer experience director at Fortnum & Mason, where she was responsible for transforming the brand’s digital offering and oversaw the launch of its new retail destinations at Heathrow Terminal 5, The Royal Exchange, and St Pancras International.

Zareem-Slade has also held senior executive roles at Hauser & Wirth and Selfridges.

Commenting on her appointment, Zareem-Slade said: “Paul Smith is one of the last truly independent British fashion houses, and that independence runs through everything the business does; the creativity, the wit, the refusal to follow. 

“I am looking forward to working with the team here to build on that foundation and to accelerate what the brand can do digitally and commercially.”

Paul Smith executive chairman Ewan Venters added: “Zia brings a valuable combination of commercial, digital, and creative expertise. 

“She has a wealth of experience in delivering growth for important, brand-led businesses, and she will undoubtedly play a key role in the continuing success of Paul Smith.”