Card Factory drafts in Willson-Rymer as chief executive

Willson-Rymer, a former boss of Clinton Cards, joins Card Factory from convenience food specialist Costcutter where he was chief executive for eight years.

He is expected to join Card Factory in March next year.

Costcutter has just been sold by Bibby Line Group to Bestway. Willson-Rymer ran the business for eight years, during which time Card Factory said he steered it through significant change including the development of a new operating model, better use of data and a brand overhaul that generated a 20% rise in sales. 

He was in charge of Clinton Cards from 2011-12, but was unable to stop it from going into administration. Before that he held senior roles including managing director of Starbucks UK & Ireland, and other hospitality businesses including KFC and Yum. 

Card factory chair Paul Moody said: “Darcy has excellent credentials and experience to lead Card Factory through the next phase of our evolution and to continue to lead the implementation of the refreshed strategy.  

“He has experience successfully leading a complex, multi-site retail business in Costcutter, held senior positions in customer service-centred global branded businesses in Starbucks and Yum, in particular, where he led a business with an operating model encompassing both owned and franchised units.

“Darcy brings highly relevant knowledge and experience that will hugely benefit Card Factory.” 

Willson-Rymer said: “My ambition is to unlock the true potential of the business by delivering its transformation strategy in the UK and internationally.”