Pentland Brands announces new chief operating officer

Pentland Brands, the name behind some of the world’s best sports, outdoor and lifestyle brands – including Speedo, Berghaus, Canterbury, ellesse and Mitre – has announced Abhy Thomas-Joseph as its new global chief operating officer (COO).

Thomas-Joseph joined Pentland Brands in 2012 and was appointed global IT director in 2018. The following year, his role expanded to include the digital and innovation functions, where he established a new global digital strategy for the brand portfolio, growing their digital sales by 40% and significantly increasing their reach and engagement in a digital world. He’s been responsible for pioneering innovative developments in technology, optimising consumer, customer and employee experiences.

Thomas-Joseph joined the Executive team in January 2022 as president – Asia Pacific, with responsibility for leading the brand, commercial, and operational teams across the region. In this role, his accountabilities also included leading the data, innovation, logistics, supply chain, technology, and transformation functions globally.

Thomas-Joseph is known for fostering trust and loyalty among employees, customers, and partners, driving large-scale digital transformations at pace within complex organisations and consistently delivering value for global businesses and their shareholders. Passionate about developing businesses and fuelling growth, Thomas-Joseph has previously ranked second in ‘The CIO 100’, which recognises the 100 most transformational and disruptive chief information officers in the UK.

Chirag Patel, Pentland Brands’ chief executive officer, said: “In his new role, Abhy will take ownership of our global operating model and ensure we’re set up to be simpler and more efficient in how we work with our customers, suppliers and partners. He’ll also build strategic vendor partnerships, drive vendor led innovations, future-proof our supply chain and logistics operations, and use data and technology to power business growth. This is a natural transition for Abhy given his existing global responsibilities and leadership impact in the organisation”.

“Abhy will continue to lead the Asia Pacific region in this role, providing executive leadership for what is the fastest growing region in the world.”

Thomas-Joseph replaces Jon Godden, who, having spent 16 years at Pentland Brands, has decided to leave the business in June 2023. Godden has held a variety of roles within the business, including managing director of Mitre Sports. As portfolio director he led the acquisition of Speedo North America and, as chief operating officer, has been responsible for leading the global finance, HR, legal and workplace teams.

Patel continues: “I’d like to personally thank Jon for his leadership and support, most recently guiding the business through the global pandemic. His calmness and professionalism, always keeping perspective and remaining resilient, were critical in helping us to navigate those challenging times. We wish Jon and his family all the best for the future.”