Belstaff CEO departs after one year

Belstaff Chief Executive Officer, Kerry Byrne, has stepped down from the role after one year.

There is currently no further information available regarding the search for a new CEO or Byrne's next steps.

Byrne spent five years at Belstaff, joining as Head of Merchandising in 2021 and taking on the role of Chief Executive in April 2025.

"After five unforgettable years at Belstaff, I’ve (metaphorically) hung up my classic leather jacket and am ready to begin a new chapter," Byrne shared on LinkedIn.

She added: "This is a remarkable industry and a privilege to be part of. At the same time, it continues to evolve at pace, particularly over the past two years, with margin pressures increasingly shaping decisions.

"Despite this, together we navigated change, simplified how we work, and refocused on what truly matters: our product, our brand, our heritage, and our purpose. In doing so, we delivered meaningful revenue growth, significant cost efficiencies, and laid the foundations for sustainable growth.

"I leave behind an incredibly talented group of people and brand ambassadors who support one another, both personally and professionally, while staying relentlessly focused on results. That, more than anything, is what I’m most proud of."

Byrne's departure follows the acquisition of Belstaff by British premium sportswear brand Castore in August last year.

While financial details of the deal were not disclosed, Castore said the union would strengthen its premium offering by leveraging Belstaff’s heritage and design pedigree alongside Castore’s direct-to-consumer expertise, online retail networks, supply chain, and expanding roster of global sports partnerships.

Last week, Castore's parent company, J Carter Sporting Club, reported a 30% increase in revenue to £334.6 million in the 18 months to 3 August 2025, although losses after taxation and exceptional items widened to £40.3 million. In the 12 months leading up to 4 February 2024, losses were reported at £25.8 million.

Its EBITDA in the same 18-month period rose to £30.8 million, up from £12.4 million in the 12 months to February 2024.

The group noted that by focusing on "brand positioning, global expansion, innovative technolog  and retail partnerships, Castore has strategically strengthened its position in a highly competitive market."

It added that: "Despite challenges, their commitment to premium quality, sustainability, and consumer engagement has helped the company manage its risks effectively and continue operating as a going concern."

Castore commented that the "challenging macro environment", as well as its "long-term view of value creation and desire to continue investing in value-accretive opportunities", had resulted in a short-term impact on profitability.

TheIndustry.fashion has reached out to Belstaff for comment.