Houlden Announce Appointment of New CEO Isabel Rhodes Ahead of Spring Meeting

04 Mar 2024

Houlden have announced the appointment of Isabel Rhodes, ahead of the Spring meeting – thereby providing both Members and Suppliers with a well-timed opportunity to then meet her at the two-day event. 

Helen Haddow, the current CEO, will continue in her position for the next three months, supporting the smooth transition to the new CEO. She will then assume her role on the Board over the coming months, continuing to support Isabel and the future growth of Houlden.

The multi-award-winning Isabel Rhodes brings a depth of relevant knowledge to the role. She has extensive experience across multiple sectors, with a proven track record for not only driving commercial growth and retail performance within highly competitive and fluctuating markets, but also in strategic planning and e-commerce.  All of which make Isabel well positioned to lead Houlden into the next phase of growth and innovation.

Rhodes was previously CEO for the Gretna Green Group in Scotland, having been promoted from the position of Commercial Director role in recognition of her significant achievements across all four service divisions including e-commerce, retail, weddings and hospitality sectors. She was responsible amongst other achievements for the company’s continued growth and operational efficiency. During her time as the CEO the company was awarded the Queens Award for International Trade in 2021.

Isabel started her retail career at Sainsbury’s, holding various senior leadership positions across Scotland and London. She led a team of 3.5k colleagues, as Regional Operations Manager in Scotland that led the growth of the multi-million-pound turnover, driving the market share and new store opening programme. 

Helen Haddow, on behalf of the Houlden Board, says,

“We are delighted to appoint such a well-suited candidate - as she brings exceptional relevant experience in retail, management, and multi-stakeholder relationships. And whilst new to the jewellery industry, she also will also provide valuable fresh insights to the Houlden services, which will help drive improvements in the overall Houlden Advantage. I look forward to working alongside Isabel in a supportive Board role, to share my knowledge of the industry, our supplier partners and of course the members.  Exciting times ahead!"

Isabel adds,

“I am honoured and delighted to have the opportunity to lead Houlden and work alongside its talented team. Together we will build upon the Houlden Advantage that has been laid by Helen and the Board.  

"I look forward to leveraging my experience and expertise with our collective pursuit of excellence, we will embark on a journey of growth, innovation and collaboration with our members, suppliers and partners, shaping the future for the industry."

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Source: Houlden