Historic shoe firm unveils new managing director

Historic Somerset firm Clarks has named Bob Neville as its managing director for the UK and the Republic of Ireland.

Neville is returning to the UK from Hong Kong, where he has spent the last 30 years in executive roles at Under Armour, New Balance and Adidas.

He was most recently global vice president of retail at Under Armour.

He will take up the new role in August and report to Jon Ram, chief executive officer of Clarks.

Neville was born in France and raised in the UK. He has worked throughout the Asia Pacific region, with a particular focus on China.

The footwear firm described him as a “true global citizen,” with “business acumen and a proven track record of leading profitable businesses, driving growth in existing markets, and successfully expanding into new territories.”

Ram said Neville will play “a leading role in delivering our strategic goals and growing our business in the UK and ROI.

“He builds great teams and empowers them to create exceptional consumer experiences We will also build out our global retail centre of excellence under his leadership.”

He replaces Joe Ulloa who stepped down in April.

Neville said: “I am excited to be coming back to England and joining Clarks as Managing Director – UK and ROI.

“It’s an iconic brand, known the world over for its innovation, expertise and craftmanship. I’m really looking forward to getting started, growing the brand, increasing our retail presence, and most importantly, to continue delivering Clarks’ customers the best experience possible.”