Lulu Guinness appoints former Agent Provocateur MD as CEO

Lulu Guinness has appointed former Agent Provocateur managing director Sandra Mertens-Lustig at its CEO.

Mertens-Lustig joins the premium accessories brand on 13 January and her appointment follows that of creative director David Hodgson in 2018.

“I’m honored to join Lulu Guinness and look forward to bringing a fresh and exciting global perspective to this iconic British brand. The exceptional opportunity to further Lulu Guinness’ rich creative legacy and join the incredible talent within Lulu Guinness, is truly inspiring and exciting,” said Mertens-Lustig of her appointment.

A seasoned luxury industry executive, Mertens-Lustig has held senior global roles for brands including Ralph Lauren, Kenzo and Coach before joining Agent Provocateur in 2017, just prior to the luxury lingerie label's acquisition by Four Holdings.

Her appointment marks a further phase in the re-invigoration of the brand, which was established by the designer of the same name in 1989. Guinness – who became famed for her witty designs and in particular a Dali-esque Lips clutch – remains close to the brand and meets regularly with creative director Hodgson, who has been the first designer to lead the creative direction of the brand since Guinness herself.

“Lulu and I are absolutely delighted with the imminent arrival of Sandra. This marks the next major step in the journey that we embarked on together in 2018 to re-energise the Lulu Guinness business. Sandra will be an outstanding partner to David’s creative strengths and natural commercial instinct, and an inspirational leader for the business,” said James McArthur, who has been chairman of the business since early 2018.

The brand also appointed former Loewe CEO and Mulberry COO Lisa Montague as non-executive director in early 2019. She is currently CEO of international luxury interior furnishings group, Walker Greenbank. Meanwhile Paul Spinks will join the business’ board as a non-executive director following his tenure at Lulu Guinness as managing director.

Read our recent interview with David Hodgson here.