James Prescott
James Prescott, CEO of global cruise retail specialist Harding+, announced during TFWA World Exhibition that he has decided to stand down from his role in the business after 10 years as part of the leadership team, the last three of which have been in the CEO position.
Prescott’s decision comes having led the business through the incredibly challenging times of COVID into the new era of ownership with Davidson Kempner, and reaching the first-year anniversary of the retailers’ transformation into Harding+.
He says: “It’s been an absolute privilege, and an honor to have led the business and worked with inspiring teams, partners and colleagues, particularly in the post Covid recovery ‘unknown’. 2023 has been a year of big change for me personally and, combined with the 10 year landmark anniversary at Harding+, it felt the right time to hand over the reins. This is a big change for the business, and for me, but it is time for someone with fresh energy to take the business to even greater heights”
“I’d like to say a huge thank you to each and every person who made these last 10 years so enjoyable and memorable. We achieved great things together, and I know the future will be even brighter.”
In his place, Harding+ has appointed retail and private equity expert Chris Matthews as its new CEO.
Chris Matthews
Matthews joins on October 16, and brings long term experience in the Retail sector to the role, from both the UK and wider International markets, holding CEO positions most recently at the UK’s largest omni-channel bingo operator, Buzz Bingo, and outdoor specialist Go Outdoors. His earlier career also included senior roles at Currys PLC, leading businesses across Greece and the Nordics, and Marks and Spencer.
He will lead the executive, leadership, operational landside and shipboard teams as the business continues to embrace the spirit of collaboration with all partners on working smarter and more creatively, and with simplification, automation and commitment to sustainability front and center as Harding+ objectives.
Harding+ Non-Executive Chairman Mike Coupe explains. “All those who work or who have worked with James know his deep knowledge and passion for Cruise Retail, and we thank him for all that he has brought to the business and our teams.”
