Former McQueen CEO Akeroyd takes top job at Versace

Former Alexander McQueen CEO Jonathan Akeroyd has been appointed CEO at Versace succeeding Gian Giacomo Ferraris who joined the Italian house in 2009.

Akeroyd had been CEO at McQueen for 12 years and announced his departure earlier this month, he was succeeded at the Kering-owned house by former YSL (also part of the Kering stable) executive Emmanuel Gintzburger.

According to WWD, he begins his appointment is effective immediately and he is expected to take up the new role officially in mid-June. According to Donatella Versace, vice president and artistic director, Akeroyd, “brings a proven track record in building global brands, steering growth and driving strategic development. Jonathan Akeroyd’s industry expertise and vision will be key to advancing the next phase of Versace’s development.”

Ferraris joined Versace in 2009. In 2014, American private equity firm The Blackstone Group took a 20% stake in Versace. Since then the company has been considering an initial public offering, with speculation it could happen by 2020.