Andrew Rosen Assumes More Active Role at Rag & Bone
Andrew Rosen is assuming a more involved position at Rag & Bone. The veteran fashion industry leader has taken on the role of executive chairman at the New York-based brand.
This move follows Rag & Bone’s acquisition in February by Guess and brand management firm WHP Global. The brand will continue to operate independently within the portfolio, with Guess owning all operating assets and the intellectual property jointly owned by Guess and WHP. The purchase price details were not disclosed, though Guess’ portion was valued at $56.5 million, with an additional earn-out possibility of $12.8 million. Rag & Bone reported a volume of $250 million last year.
Rosen, who has held an ownership stake in Rag & Bone for several years, has served as chairman of the board. After co-founder Marcus Wainwright exited the brand last July, Rosen collaborated with the remaining management team to keep the business running. He also played a crucial role in bringing Robert Geller on board as head of menswear design. The latest announcement solidifies Rosen’s position in the company.
As executive chairman, Rosen will collaborate with Guess executives Paul Marciano, co-founder and chief creative officer, and Carlos Alberini, CEO, as well as WHP executive chairman Yehuda Shmidman. Together, they will provide strategic direction to Rag & Bone’s executive team and drive growth.
Rosen’s deep roots in American fashion trace back to his father and grandfather, both of whom were involved in the industry. He began his career at Calvin Klein, co-founded Theory in 1997, and served as its CEO for over 20 years. He remains an active investor in the fashion industry, with stakes in brands such as Alice + Olivia, Veronica Beard, and TWP, which launched three years ago.
Paul Marciano expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “It’s an exciting time for both Guess and Rag & Bone as we embark on the next chapter of growth, and I believe Andrew is the ideal person to continue to lead and represent the Rag & Bone brand on this journey. I couldn’t be more excited to work with Andrew in this great opportunity together.”
Carlos Alberini added, “Andrew knows our business and industry exceptionally well, and as a true visionary and pioneer in fashion has paved the way for many other founders, designers, and entrepreneurs to succeed and grow in today’s evolving and increasingly digital environment. I am thrilled for Andrew to be a part of the Guess family and look forward to a strong partnership on the path ahead as we focus on driving value for our stakeholders.”
Rosen commented on his long-standing involvement with Rag & Bone, saying, “I have always been passionate about our brand and the opportunities that lie ahead. This new relationship now cements that ambition by providing an incredible platform for us to leverage our potential globally. Our executive team and I are excited to embark on this journey with Paul, Carlos, the entire Guess organization, as well as with Yehuda and WHP Global.”
Founded by Marcus Wainwright and David Neville in 2002, Rag & Bone saw both founders serve as co-CEOs for over a decade. Neville stepped aside in 2016 to pursue a career in beauty with his wife, Gucci Westman. In 2018, former Nike executive Stephanie Strack was named CEO, but her tenure lasted only eight months before Wainwright resumed leadership, working closely with Rosen and the executive management team.