Hackett London and Pepe Jeans Owner AWWG Appoints New CEO

Why It Matters

The CEO change provides strategic continuity while positioning AWWG to accelerate growth across its multi‑brand portfolio, reassuring investors and partners in a competitive fashion market.

Key Takeaways

• Laura Fernandez Plaza promoted from CFO to CEO
• Marcella Wartenbergh exits after seven-year tenure
• Fernandez Plaza led AWWG's transformation and digitalisation
• New CEO aims to accelerate growth across Hackett, Pepe Jeans
• Board praises resilient, disciplined platform built under previous CEO

Pulse Analysis

AWWG’s leadership shuffle arrives at a pivotal moment for the European fashion sector, where brand owners are juggling post‑pandemic recovery, supply‑chain volatility, and shifting consumer preferences. The group’s portfolio—spanning heritage menswear label Hackett, denim‑centric Pepe Jeans, and upscale Façonnable—has benefited from a disciplined cost structure and a focus on digital channels. By installing an insider who has overseen finance and transformation, AWWG signals a commitment to preserving its operational gains while seeking fresh avenues for revenue, such as omnichannel expansion and strategic collaborations.

Laura Fernandez Plaza’s ascent reflects a broader industry trend of promoting finance‑savvy executives to chief executive roles. Her tenure as Chief Transformation Officer saw the rollout of a unified ERP system, the launch of data‑driven inventory management, and a push toward e‑commerce integration across all brands. These initiatives have already tightened margins and improved inventory turnover, laying a solid foundation for scaling. An internal promotion also mitigates disruption, as she already commands the confidence of senior managers and the board, ensuring that ongoing projects—like the recent digital‑first marketing campaign for Pepe Jeans—remain on track.

For investors and market observers, the appointment underscores AWWG’s focus on sustainable growth rather than aggressive acquisitions. The new CEO’s stated intent to “build on momentum” suggests an emphasis on organic expansion, leveraging brand heritage and operational excellence to capture market share in both mature European markets and emerging regions. As the fashion industry continues to prioritize sustainability, technology, and consumer experience, AWWG’s leadership continuity positions it to navigate these challenges while delivering consistent shareholder returns.