Paul Smith appoints former Fortnum & Mason CEO as Executive Chairman

Paul Smith has appointed Ewan Venters to the newly created role of Executive Chairman, effective as of 1 October 2025.

Serving as Non-Executive Director at Paul Smith Ltd since February of this year, Venters was previously CEO of contemporary art gallery, Hauser & Wirth.

Prior to that, he was CEO of Fortnum & Mason for eight years, overseeing the department store’s transformation and “unparalleled growth in the business”. He has also previously held leadership role at Selfridges.

Sir Paul Smith said: “I’m delighted to welcome Ewan to the team on the cusp of celebrating our 55th anniversary.

“In his time at Paul Smith as a non-executive director, Ewan has brought boundless energy and a welcome perspective to help propel us into our next chapter. I’m very excited to continue working together.”

Venters added: “Paul Smith is one Britain’s most enduring, captivating and beloved brands, and I am thrilled to be joining the team at an important juncture in its development.

“I have known and admired Sir Paul for some time, and I regard it as a great privilege to work alongside one of Britain’s greatest living designers and entrepreneurs.”

Venters will remain in other positions, including as Chair of the Private Sector Council of the GREAT campaign, which seeks to enhance the UK’s business reputation overseas.

He was awarded an OBE in the King’s Honours List in 2024 for services to international trade.