Luxury veteran Tom Mendenhall steps in as CEO following Stella McCartney’s split from LVMH, signaling a new era of independent growth.
Stella McCartney has appointed Tom Mendenhall as its new chief executive officer, marking a pivotal leadership transition as the brand returns to full independence. Mendenhall succeeds Amandine Ohayon, who is stepping down after nearly two years and will continue in an advisory capacity during the transition.
Mendenhall brings deep industry experience from previous leadership roles at Tom Ford, Gucci, and Ralph Lauren, and currently oversees menswear retail concept Jamestown Hudson, which he co-founded. His appointment comes on the heels of Stella McCartney’s move to buy back LVMH’s minority stake, ending a five-year collaboration and signaling a new chapter for the company.
In a statement, Stella McCartney praised Mendenhall’s “extensive experience in all facets of luxury fashion,” expressing confidence in his ability to help scale the brand while preserving its ethical and sustainability-driven values. The shift also reflects a tightening focus on long-term strategy as luxury faces a period of volatility and consumer recalibration.
The brand, founded in 2001, currently operates 36 directly owned stores and 11 franchises worldwide. Mendenhall’s arrival is expected to bolster the company’s renewed push for growth, innovation, and continued leadership in the sustainable luxury space.