US clothing brand Original Penguin seeks a UK marketer

Original Penguin, the US luxury clothing brand, is seeking its first UK marketing director ahead of its plans to expand across Europe.

The premium brand is seeking a London-based marketer to oversee its UK and European marketing plans and to develop an advertising strategy for 2009.

Perry Ellis, the parent company of the brand Original Penguin, opened its first European standalone store in London’s Covent Garden last week. The store currently sells menswear, shoes and accessories, but it is also planning to bring its womenswear and children’s range to the UK.

The brand was previously only available through Selfridges and Urban Outfitters. It will continue to sell through these retailers, but the extended range will be exclusively available in its flagship store.

Perry Ellis International senior vice-president of marketing Pablo de Echevarria reveals that the brand is now aiming to increase its visibility in the European market.

He says “We are in the process of appointing a marketing director for the first time to introduce new marketing strategies for the UK and pan-European market.”

The brand currently has a UK marketing manager, Louise Hughes, but is seeking a marketing director as it aims to boost its presence in Europe and launch new promotional campaigns in 2009. The role may also be extended to include its other brands such as C&C California, Cubavera, Axis and MCD, among others.