Kuoni has appointed former Body Shop executive Donna Hynes as its retail director.
Hynes, who starts on July 31, will be tasked with enhancing the in-store experience across the company’s 26 branches, investing in talent and “creating stand-out in the market”, according to the operator.
Managing director Mark Duguid said: “Our people are part of what makes Kuoni different and with Donna’s input we’re going to assert our position as one of the best places to work and ensure that our retail division continues to thrive.”
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Hynes, who will report to Duguid, will join the Kuoni board and replaces Helen Roberts, who is stepping down after 20 years.
In Hynes’ most recent position, as The Body Shop’s UK and Ireland retail and property director, she was responsible for more than 250 retail stores, nine franchise partners and 150 pharmacies in Ireland.
As well as being a senior executive at The Body Shop for nine years, Hynes’ experience also covers brands including TK Maxx, Monsoon Accessorize and L’Oréal.
Hynes said: “I’m joining the Kuoni team as retail director at an exciting time. During my time as retail and property director at The Body Shop, I learned that people are the heart of the business and so I am looking forward to meeting everyone, especially all the retail teams in stores very soon.
“I’m so excited about this next chapter in my career and can’t wait to immerse myself in this award-winning, heritage brand and make positive impact together.”
Kuoni’s 26 retail outlets throughout the UK include eight within John Lewis, a total of 10 on high streets and eight in shopping centres – among them, Kent’s Bluewater, Greater Manchester’s Trafford Centre and Sheffield’s Meadowhall.
Duguid said: “Our store network is a fantastic asset and we want to make sure we stay on top of our game, driving innovation in the fast-changing retail sector.”
He added: “I’m really excited about Donna joining the team. She’ll be able to use her background in retail, fashion and beauty to bring a new dynamic and fresh perspective to our travel business.
“With a strong track record of customer experience, store operations and operational efficiency, she’ll be able to shape the future direction of our store network and approach to retailing.”
Kuoni has been the travel partner of John Lewis for 10 years and has recently extended the deal.