Chris Isitt will step down as VP of EMEA and Australia, and Managing Director of Rubie’s Masquerade at the end of February, the company has confirmed.
He spent 22 years at the licensed costume and dress-up specialist, during which he “built an incredible team, oversaw major licensing portfolio acquisitions, and overall set us on a path to success in both the UK and European markets”, says company president and CEO Marc Beige.
“He will always be a treasured member of the Rubie’s family, and we wish him continued success in all of his endeavours,” Marc adds.
With Chris’ departure, Peter Warton, current MD of the party company’s Australian outpost, Rubie’s Deerfield, will be promoted to Executive Director of Rubie’s Masquerade and International Licensing.
Based primarily in the UK, Peter will continue to lead Deerfiled as well as working alongside UK Managing Director Holly Oldham to continue to grow the business, and Bristol Novelty’s Mike O’Connell.
“He is a proven leader with expertise in motivating individuals and teams, building strong partnerships with licensors and customers, and expanding operations,” Marc says, underlining the company’s “ongoing initiatives to evolve and transform the business in the new decade”.
Peter joins the company’s UK office in Oxfordshire next month.
Top image credit: cotswoldlife.co.uk
