Gymshark appoints former Adidas boss to head retail and wholesale

Mercer was previously global vice-president at Adidas for six years, where she executed the sportswear giant’s global retail strategy along with leading its diversity council.

Before Adidas, she held senior retail roles at Nike, Harrods and House of Fraser.

In her latest role, Mercer will be responsible for growth across all physical channels, driving market share and optimising turnover through consumer conversion. 

Hers is the latest in a series of senior appointments at Gymshark, following Mat Dunn joining from Asos as chief financial officer, Carly Natalizia joining from The Very Group as chief digital officer and Laurent Madelaine joining from Lacoste as chief supply chain officer.

Mercer said: “I’ve been watching the Gymshark story closely for a number of years now and it was really the only brand I would have chosen to join.

“Its strategy of moving from solely an ecomm business to being fully omnichannel is bold, to say the least. But it’s this boldness, this ambition, this relentless pursuit of building communities, coupled with global expansion across all channels, that makes me so excited to join such a dynamic brand.

“I cannot wait to get started, continue the great work that started in Regent Street and play my part in making Gymshark a true global powerhouse.”

Ben Francis, founder and chief executive of Gymshark, said: “It’s no secret that we are looking to build on the success of our flagship store in Regent Street and massively turn up the volume on our omnichannel strategy. And I can think of no better person to lead this charge than Hannah.

“She’s obviously got pretty much unparalleled experience in the retail industry, but her appetite for genuine community-led initiatives, as well as her commitment to inclusivity and diversity, make her such an exciting signing for Gymshark. I cannot wait to see the boost she is going to bring to us all!”