Brendan Santamaria has been appointed as Seafolly’s new CEO.
Santamaria has been earmarked to fix, reset and grow Seafolly, paving the way to recovery through the challenging COVID-19 retail landscape whilst tapping into the brand’s local and international growth potential.
Santamaria has over 15 years of CEO experience in the branded goods industry, leading brands such as Everlast, Lonsdale and Disney.
In his most recent role as CEO of Designworks, he transitioned a private label apparel business into one of Australia’s largest branded apparel and footwear wholesalers.
Santamaria said he is thrilled to be joining the team in the current global environment.
“I am excited to be joining the team at such a pivotal moment for the brand and the global retail environment.
"Now is the time to shake things up at Seafolly and I see real opportunity for Seafolly to emerge post Voluntary Administration as one of the world’s most iconic swimwear and beach lifestyle brands.
"To date the brand has established and nurtured a global loyal customer following especially here in Australia.
"Our goal is to grow this customer base further and set the brand back on its trajectory to global success, together with our partners.”
Commenting on the appointment, L Catterton ANZ head Ondrej Ruzicka welcomes him to the team.
"Brendan’s appointment comes as Seafolly embarks onto a new chapter in its journey to further grow and elevate the brand that has been leading the Australian swimwear market for the past four decades.
"Brendan’s extensive leadership and retail experience will be a huge asset to Seafolly in the next phase of retail post Covid-19 and in bringing it closer to becoming the world’s most iconic brand in this exciting category.”