Ex-Hunter exec Paolo Porta appointed CEO at Smythson

Luxury leather and stationery specialist, Smythson of Bond Street, has today announced the appointment of Paolo Porta as its new CEO, effective immediately.

Paolo Porta boasts an extensive career in the luxury and fashion sector. Prior to joining Smythson, he had been CEO at Hunter Boot since March 2021 after holding the position on an interim basis from June 2020.

Porta previously held the position of Senior Vice President of Merchandising and Licensing at Jimmy Choo as well as roles at Burberry, Christian Dior and Stella McCartney. His career spans merchandising, retail buying and management, wholesale distribution and brand development.

Stefano Giacomelli, Chairman of Smythson and CEO of Tivoli Group, commented: "I’m delighted that Paolo is joining the brand to take on the role of CEO. Thanks to his extensive expertise in global lifestyle companies, he is ideally placed to lead such a distinctive and renowned brand as Smythson.

"Under Paolo’s leadership, the brand is primed to begin a new chapter in its development through the strengthening of its traditional markets in the UK and Europe but in particular, to expand its presence in new, strategic markets such as the United States and Asia".

Paolo Porta added: "I’m proud to be given the chance to contribute to the further growth and development of Smythson, which I have always admired and which represents over 130 years of the finest British luxury. Smythson’s potential is both vast and unique. I am thrilled to be working with such a talented, experienced and close-knit team to implement a new project of development and growth."