Inditex to promote COO to chief executive

Executive chairman Pablo Isla has proposed the appointment, which will now need to be approved by the board and the clothing giant’s AGM.

Isla said that Crespo was suited to the role at a time marked by “strategic digital transformation and far-reaching commitment to sustainability”.

Crespo began his career in auditing, joining Inditex in 2001. He was named COO in 2018.

He will take on some responsibilities currently held by Isla. The pair will work together to define wider business strategy but Crespo will be responsible for areas including technology, data, logistics and sustainability. All Inditex stores will be digitally integrated and sustainable by 2020 as the group works to make its estate eco-efficient.

Crespo said: “I am very excited to play a role at this important time for the company in which digital transformation and sustainability in all its manifestations represent exciting challenges where innovation, entrepreneurial spirit and teamwork are prerequisites.”