Specsavers global brand director Richard Holmes has announced his retirement after 11 years with the company.
New chief marketing officer (CMO) Katherine Whitton, most recently CMO of Barclaycard and previously head of global and UK marketing communications at British Airways, will join the multiple in May.
Specsavers joint CEO John Perkins said: ‘Richard joined just as the global financial crisis took hold – a challenging time for many consumer businesses. Throughout this time, Richard was a fantastic source of advice and support and ultimately, he helped us to emerge from the other side as a much stronger business.
‘On first joining us, he said that he would consider it a sign of success rather than failure if, on eventually leaving us, we were still using the ‘‘Should’ve gone to Specsavers’’ tagline. It’s a credit to him and his marketing and creative teams that this advertising concept has not only stood the test of time under his stewardship, but is stronger than ever today. We will miss Richard immensely and wish him the very best in his retirement.’
Holmes added: ‘I have had the time of my life working with Specsavers and travelling the world to help further build this tremendous brand. There are many talented creative and marketing geniuses at the heart of this business who will continue to drive its fame, brand love and customer loyalty.
‘I will miss the people, culture and energy of Specsavers and wish them all continued growth and success. I now plan to focus on other business interests and charitable enterprises.’