Ewan Venters, the former chief executive of Fortnum & Mason, has joined the board of the designer label Paul Smith Ltd.
His appointment as a non-executive director comes shortly after stepping down as CEO of global contemporary art gallery Hauser & Wirth, where he also oversaw the acquisition of London’s famous Groucho Club.
Sir Paul Smith, founder and chairman of the eponymous fashion brand, described Venters’ arrival as “a pivotal moment”, emphasising that the company is exploring “key strategies to shape the future” of the business. Venters, who was honoured with an OBE in 2024 for services to international trade, said he had long admired “what is indisputably a great British brand” and was excited about the label’s next phase of growth.
Before Hauser & Wirth, Venters spent eight years at Fortnum & Mason, presiding over a period of record performance. He also held senior posts at Selfridges and is currently chair of the private sector council of the government’s GREAT campaign. In addition, he sits on the newly formed Soft Power Council and serves as a trustee of the King’s Foundation.
Paul Smith Ltd, founded in 1970, made its name in menswear before expanding into other areas of fashion and lifestyle. A significant minority stake in the company was sold to Itochu, its Japanese licensing partner, in 2006. Although Sir Paul remains closely involved with the brand, Venters’ appointment suggests a renewed focus on strategic innovation and expansion for the heritage British label.
