Bata Shoes names new chief executive

Switzerland-based Bata footwear company has named Alexis Nasard as its group chief executive, effective immediately.

The former Heineken and Procter and Gamble executive will oversee the firm’s global branded, retail and e-commerce shoe business.

Nasard brings with him more than 24 years of experience in consumer goods, most recently serving as president of Heineken’s 8 billion dollars Western European business. He also spent 17 years at Proctor and Gamble, helping to define strategies for new product categories and overseeing sales efforts in both developed and emerging markets.

Commenting on his new role, Nasard said: "I am very excited at the opportunity to work with the Bata team to further develop the company and its brands, particularly the Bata brand, through a fast-changing consumer and retail environment, building on the company's strong assets and global footprint.”

Bata was founded in 1894 and has more than 30,000 employees, 24 production facilities, 5,000 international retail stores, and a presence in over 70 countries.

Thomas G. Bata, added: “We share the same core values [with Alexis] which fit the Bata culture. I am confident that through his leadership and team-building skills he will drive new growth and performance for the group beyond its 122nd year.”

Image: Bata - Alexis Nasard