Harvey Nichols has appointed former Topshop exec Kate Phelan as the first Creative Director of the luxury department store chain.
In the newly created role, Phelan, a stylist and fashion journalist for Vogue, will oversee the creation of marketing and brand campaigns.
“This is an exciting time in retail with many new opportunities to use the channels we have available to tell stories,” said Phelan.
“Harvey Nichols has a wonderful history, and I very much look forward to working alongside Julia and the Harvey Nichols team in delivering a new energy and vision for the brand.”
Phelan began her career at Vogue in 1984, before joining fashion retailer Topshop in 2011.
She has maintained a part-time position at Vogue since 2013.
Phelan’s new role is the first major appointment since Alexander McQueen veteran Julia Goddard was named Harvey Nichols’ CEO in April 2024.
Goddard succeeded Manju Malhotra, who stepped down in 2023 after 25 years in the business, and leads the department stores’ fashion and beauty retail strategy.
“We are delighted to welcome Kate as our new Creative Director. Kate’s esteemed career in the fashion industry has been captivating, and her expertise will strengthen the leadership team at Harvey Nichols,” said Goddard.
“Her renowned experience will be instrumental in driving Harvey Nichols forward to establish itself as the go to brand for well curated luxury fashion, delivering quality growth and successfully celebrating our brand’s unique DNA.”
Cosmetics Business has contacted Harvey Nichols for a comment.