Douglas announced the appointment of Jean-Marc Bellaiche as the group's new CEO, a leadership change that will take effect on November 1st.

The 56-year-old French executive succeeds Sander van der Laan, who decided to leave executive roles after a 36-year career in international retail.

The appointment was approved by Douglas' supervisory board for a four-year term.

Experience in premium and omnichannel retail.

Jean-Marc Bellaiche previously served as CEO of the French department store chain Printemps. During his five years leading the group, he was associated with strengthening the brand's positioning, international expansion, the development of exclusive offerings, and the acceleration of its omnichannel strategy.

His experience in the areas of beauty, luxury, digital transformation, and brand management was highlighted by Douglas as one of the determining factors in the selection. Henning Kreke, chairman of the supervisory board, emphasized the new executive's international career and the knowledge acquired in different retail segments.

Change after four years of leadership.

Sander van der Laan took over as head of Douglas in October 2022, following a career developed in retail companies in Europe and the United States. His departure marks the beginning of a new phase in the management of the perfume chain, at a time when the beauty industry continues to transform through digitalization, omnichannel distribution, and the growing importance of exclusive brands.

Jean-Marc Bellaiche stated he was excited about the opportunity to join the group at a time of evolution for the sector. The appointment reinforces Douglas's intention to combine the development of physical stores with digital experience and the enhancement of its beauty offering.