Bravissimo's CEO exits just months after Wacoal acquisition

Leanne Cahill, CEO of Bravissimo, has stepped down just months after the British bra and swimwear retailer was acquired by Wacoal Europe. 

In September 2024, Bravissimo - known for its bras, lingerie and swimwear that cater to "big-boobed women"- was acquired by Wacoal Europe, the parent company of brands including Freya, Fantasie and Elomi, which Bravissimo has stocked for many years.

Cahill took over as CEO in 2020, following the transition of founder Sarah Tremellen to Chair. During her tenure, she focused on driving profitability while maintaining the brand’s strong reputation for customer service. In 2023, Bravissimo’s underlying EBITDA more than doubled year-on-year.

At the time of the acquisition, Wacoal stated that Bravissimo would continue to operate as a standalone company, with Cahill remaining in the top role. She said at the time: "I am excited to be leading Bravissimo as it becomes part of the Wacoal group… whilst maintaining Bravissimo’s heritage and the unique experience we offer our customers."

However, this week, Cahill announced: "All good things must come to an end, and six months post-acquisition, it’s now time for me to say my goodbyes as I step down as CEO at Bravissimo.

"What a wonderful seven years it’s been. Together, we’ve taken Bravissimo through some of the most challenging times in living history and emerged stronger. We’ve made bold changes and innovative leaps forward to be the best we can for our customers, making sure Bravissimo is a place where they can truly celebrate themselves and where our teams can thrive and achieve their potential.

"The results speak for themselves: our incredible customer feedback, our best-ever employee engagement scores, our step-change profit growth. We’ve moved mountains to achieve so much, and I wouldn’t change a thing. It’s been so much fun."

She went on to thank Sarah Tremellen for trusting her to lead the business, adding she's having a break over summer before she'll plot out her next career steps.

Geoff Embley, CEO of Wacoal Europe, added: "We thank Leanne sincerely for her remarkable contribution, not only during her tenure as CEO but also throughout Bravissimo’s acquisition into the Wacoal family where her guidance and support have been invaluable. As we look to the future, we remain committed to preserving what makes both Wacoal Europe and Bravissimo unique and successful."