Walpole names new managing director

Walpole, the luxury brands trade body, has named Michelle

Emmerson as managing director with immediate effect.

Joining from Asos, where she was group services and people director, Emmerson will be responsible for the group’s strategy and taking Walpole to the next stage in its evolution. She will work closely with the Walpole Board and report to Chairman Ben Hughes.

Prior to Asos, Emmerson held various Board level and senior roles at two other British brands: BBC Worldwide and EMI Music. She has also worked with the British Phonographic Industry, the trade association for the UK Music Industry and The Official Charts Company.

Hughes commented: “We are delighted to announce the appointment of Michelle as managing director; she is a valuable addition to the Walpole British Luxury team. The board and I look forward to drawing on Michelle’s experience and expertise in driving Walpole to its next stage of growth.”

Emmerson added: “It is a great honour to be able to contribute my skills and expertise to the board of Walpole British Luxury. I look forward to building my relationship with the organisation and its members and helping Walpole drive the agenda forward.”

Walpole British Luxury is a not-for-profit organisation that represents over 175 British luxury brands including Alexander McQueen, Burberry, Mulberry, Fortnum & Mason, Harrods and Jimmy Choo. In September, Walpole’s chief executive Julia Carrick stepped down after 13 years in the role to take on “new challenges within the luxury arena”.