Burberry’s appoints new global chief

Burberry’s Worldwide, the luxury goods subsidiary of Great Universal Stores (GUS), has appointed a new senior vice-president.

Michele Smith will become vice-president, women’s ready-to-wear worldwide – a newly-created post – for the fashion company’s retail, wholesale and licensing divisions from next month.

For the past four years, Smith has been senior vice-president and general merchandise manager for women’s clothing at Barney’s, the designer department store which is the New York equivalent of Harvey Nichols in London.

Her new role will involve overseeing design, sourcing for the women’s retail and wholesale businesses, and all of Burberry’s licensees.

Smith will report to Rose Marie Bravo, recently appointed as chief executive officer at Burberry’s Worldwide.

“She brings a fresh perspective and has the vision to develop a luxury brand on a global basis,” says Bravo.