Lea Cranfield, chief buying officer at End Clothing, is set to leave the business in August.
- Terry Betts has been appointed as the interim head of buying and merchandising.
- Lea Cranfield’s impact at End Clothing includes strengthening the team’s functions and capabilities.
- Betts brings extensive experience from roles at The Elder Statesman and Thread.
- End Clothing has made strategic promotions and hires to reinforce their team.
Lea Cranfield, who has significantly contributed to End Clothing since joining in May 2023 from Yoox Net-a-Porter, will be leaving her position as chief buying and merchandising officer in August. Her exit marks a notable change in the company’s leadership dynamics.
Terry Betts has been appointed as the interim head of buying and merchandising, effective 1 July. Betts will report directly to CEO Parker Gundersen while the search for a permanent replacement continues. His appointment is strategic, given his extensive experience in buying and business development at prestigious brands including Threads and The Elder Statesman.
Cranfield’s tenure at End Clothing has been impactful. As CEO Parker Gundersen remarked, she has played a crucial role in strengthening key functions and capabilities within the team. Her decision to depart is described as challenging, reflecting the close bond she formed with the team she has helped develop.
Betts, who emerged from his role as director of special projects at The Elder Statesman since December 2022, brings a wealth of experience from his previous positions at Thread and Selfridges. His arrival is anticipated to provide a strong level of leadership support as the company continues to pursue its strategic growth objectives.
End Clothing is taking proactive steps to enhance its buying and merchandising team. Recent promotions include Dean Walker to director of sports and energy, and Sevcan Halit to buying manager overseeing womenswear, lifestyle, and accessories. Additionally, Louise Schwartz has been recruited from Mr Porter as a senior buyer, with further plans to strengthen the department.
These strategic changes in leadership and personnel underscore End Clothing’s commitment to maintaining robust buying and merchandising operations.