Page 4 - RLI April 2019

who’s who in retail

MEETS

HUGH

WAHLA

CEO OF THE CONRAN SHOP

Beginning his career almost 30 years ago, Hugh Wahla was Q. As a leader, when making key strategic decisions, what
previously the Senior Merchandiser for Arcadia/The Burton proportion of the decision do you feel is fact-based and what
Group, before moving onto become the Managing Director of proportion is instinctual?
Urban Outfitters Europe, a role he held for almost 17 years. A. It’s always important to look forward based on a sensible combination
After taking a short break from the industry he returned to the of the two. Reading the patterns and stories in any given situation
retail sector after agreeing to become the new CEO of Conran requires an understanding of the facts that then help shape the decision.
Retail and Brand Holdings, a role he has held since September That decision could then be based on fact or it could allow you to take a
2015. In his role, he is responsible for the iconic Conran Shop leap of faith based on intuition which is what invariably sets leaders apart.
Brand through multiple channels across retail stores, concessions,
franchise and wholesale licences, eCommerce and contracts. Q. Can a leader be transformational and authentic, and who
is your favourite example of such a leader?
Q. What are your key objectives over the next 12 months? A. I have been privileged to have worked for two incredibly inspirational
A. We have some very exciting new openings this year, starting with leaders who have both been transformational and authentic, so yes. At
a new space in Galeries Lafayette in Paris this month. This will be Urban Outfitters I worked for the Founder, Richard Hayne and for the
followed by a significant shift in our Selfridges presence in the autumn last few years I’ve been working for Sir Terence Conran. I would say
and topped off by opening our new flagship in Seoul in November. these are both great examples.
This will be the most exciting development for our brand in over 20
years and will pave the way for more openings across South Korea and Q. What do you make of social media and its prominent rise
beyond. We also continue to build our partnerships with key furniture in importance over the last few years?
and design brands, especially on exclusive collaborations, along with a A. It’s clearly transformed the way that people communicate, share
key focus on building The Conran Shop and Conran Contracts Brands. experiences and build community. As a result, it’s had a profound
impact on expectations and attention spans. That cannot be ignored
Q. Have the economic struggles across the market in recent but it also needs to be approached and managed with caution.
years had any impact on the business?
A. We can’t deny that the uncertainty around Brexit in the UK has Q. What would you consider to be your career highlights?
had an impact on delivering our expectations. Our furniture business is A. Working for the two incredibly inspirational leaders I’ve already
intrinsically linked to confidence in the housing market and that’s weak mentioned, building two amazing brands, as Managing Director of Urban
right now. Having said this, we are still delivering growth which gives Outfitters in Europe for 17 years and with Conran over the last three
us confidence that our strategy is on track. Our business in France is and a half years, with product I love and, as a result, being exposed to and
doing exceptionally well. having to resonate with so many territories, cultures and communities.

Q. What three key leadership skills do you feel are the most Q. How are you feeling about the 12 months ahead?
important in the current retail climate? A. Ask me once Brexit is out the way… The Conran Shop as a brand
A. I would say you need to have an open minded approach to all is on track and has so many opportunities to explore.
situations, you need to inspire the team and give them confidence with
a clear vision and finally a focus on control without stifling creativity Q. Do you have words of warning for the industry?
and brand building. A. Always remember the importance of evolution.

04 RETAIL & LEISURE INTERNATIONAL APRIL 2019