Globus family of brands has appointed former Breitling boss Christopher Leigh as Managing Director Asia Pacific.
The appointment follows the announcement in May that current managing director Chris Hall will transition to the newly created role of Chairman and Strategic Advisor.
Mr Leigh brings more than 15 years’ experience leading luxury retail operations across Australia and New Zealand, most recently as Managing Director of Breitling Oceania, the Swiss luxury watchmaker, a role he held for seven years after more than two years as the brand’s Marketing Director.
Christopher led significant revenue growth for Breitling through strategic retail expansion, cost control and margin improvement measures. He also forged strategic partnerships with Qantas, News Corp and Nine.
Scott Nisbet, GFOB President and Chief Executive Officer, said while excellent candidates with deep travel industry experience applied for the role, the company has appointed an experienced managing director with a strong vision for its brands.
“Christopher’s success in growing a premium luxury brand through trade channel development and strategic partnerships is highly relevant to our sector,” added Mr Nisbet.
“Whether you’re selling a luxury watch or a high value holiday, the mindset and buyer behaviour is similar and we are excited to enlist his experience and fresh perspective as we grow our touring and river cruise brands.
“The market is evolving quickly and Christopher’s experience simultaneously growing trade channels and curating a sought-after consumer brand will allow us to cut through in a competitive market.”
Mr Leigh said he was looking forward to meeting and working with GFOB’s range of travel partners.
“Globus family of brands has looked closely at its strategy over the past year and I’m excited to build on that momentum, enhancing the approach to ensure the company’s financial success and growth over the long-term,” added Mr Leigh.
“The brands have strong partnerships with industry and a strong base from which to grow.
“The challenge of building brand preference in both trade and consumer distribution channels, in a highly competitive environment, is one I’m familiar with, and I relish the opportunity to tackle this at GFOB.”
Mr Leigh will be based in GFOB’s Sydney office and will begin his new role on July 27.
